Pakistan says train rescue complete, all militants killed, hostages rescued

Pakistan’s military on Wednesday announced the completion of its rescue operation after militants seized the Jaffar Express, confirming that all attackers had been killed and hostages freed.

Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the military’s spokesperson, told a local TV channel that 440 passengers were onboard when the attack began. He confirmed that elite units from the Special Services Group (SSG), Air Force, and police took part in the operation.

“In the first phase, we neutralized a suicide bomber,” Chaudhry said. “The entire operation has now been completed.”

He added that 33 militants were killed, while 21 passengers lost their lives before security forces intervened.

Security forces targeted in attack

Four paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) soldiers deployed on railway security duty were also killed in the attack, he said.

“No one will be allowed to harm the citizens of Pakistan,” Chaudhry added.

Despite the intensity of the operation, he said no further casualties occurred among passengers during the rescue.

The attack, claimed by the separatist Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), took place on Tuesday when militants targeted the Jaffar Express traveling from Quetta to Peshawar.

More than 190 passengers had been freed earlier in the operation, with security forces taking extreme caution to ensure the safety of civilians.

The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), later issued a statement reaffirming its director general’s remarks. It said Pakistan’s security forces are working tirelessly to support the families of victims and rescued hostages.

A “sanitization operation” is underway in the area, and those who aided the attackers will be brought to justice, the statement added.

"Intelligence reports confirm that the attack was planned and directed by terrorist leaders operating from Afghanistan, who remained in direct contact with the militants throughout the incident," ISPR said.

"Pakistan expects the Interim Afghan Government to fulfill its responsibilities and prevent its soil from being used for terrorism against Pakistan," it added.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating terrorism, stating, "The sacrifices of innocent civilians and our brave soldiers only strengthen our resolve to protect our nation at all costs."

Pakistan battles growing insurgency

Pakistan has faced increasing attacks from separatist groups in Balochistan, an insurgency-hit province rich in natural resources.

Violence has escalated in the western border regions since the Taliban regained power in Afghanistan in 2021, adding to security challenges in the area.

Leadership lauds successful operation

President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the security forces for their swift and effective operation. He mourned the loss of civilians and security personnel, calling it a "tragic incident."

"The bravery of the security forces in eliminating 33 terrorists and rescuing civilians is commendable," Zardari said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the Pakistan Army and security forces for successfully completing the Jaffar Express operation and rescuing all hostages.

"The operation was executed with exceptional skill, made possible by the professionalism of our security personnel and the dynamic leadership of the Army chief," he said.

"Those who harm innocent civilians have no connection to Islam or this country," the prime minister said, vowing to defeat such attackers on all fronts.

"Our fight against terrorism will continue until it is eradicated from Pakistan," he added.

Shehbaz said he will visit Balochistan to express solidarity with its people and review the security situation. He will also chair a meeting on law and order.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for their bravery and professionalism.

"The security forces exercised extreme caution to save the lives of women and children," Naqvi said.

He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of 21 innocent lives and paid tribute to the four FC soldiers who sacrificed themselves.

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar detailed the military’s efforts, stating that Pakistan Army, FC, Special Services Group (SSG), and Air Force personnel worked together to execute the mission.

He also accused certain political and media groups of spreading misinformation about the attack.

"The Indian media, BLA, and PTI were speaking in the same voice regarding this incident," he remarked.

Tarar also confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would visit Balochistan to assess the situation.

"Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has spoken to the Chief Minister and will visit Balochistan tomorrow to discuss further action," Tarar concluded.

International community condemns attack

The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from international leaders.

The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad denounced the assault, calling it a “horrific act.”

“We strongly condemn the attack on the Jaffar Express and the hostage-taking of passengers in Kacchi, Balochistan,” the embassy said. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims and their families.”

The embassy also reaffirmed Washington’s support, saying the U.S. “remains a steadfast partner of Pakistan in ensuring the safety and security of all its citizens.”

China’s Foreign Ministry also condemned the attack, pledging continued support for Pakistan.

“China opposes all forms of terrorism,” a spokesperson said. “We will continue to support Pakistan in maintaining security and stability.”

Iran and the United Nations also expressed their concerns, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres calling the attack on civilians “unacceptable.”