Escalating Tensions: Explosions in Lahore Amid Rising Violence in Balochistan
Tensions escalated in Pakistan on Thursday as multiple explosions rocked the city of Lahore, while the restive province of Balochistan witnessed deadly attacks on military personnel. The incidents, though geographically distinct, highlight the growing challenges faced by Pakistan’s internal security forces amid external and internal conflicts.
A loud explosion was reported near the military airport on Walton Road, Lahore, causing panic among residents. The blast, which occurred on Thursday, was followed by reports of additional explosions in areas close to Walton Road, which leads to Lahore Cantonment.
Eyewitnesses described seeing smoke rising into the sky as people rushed out of their homes in fear. Sirens were heard in the area shortly after the initial explosion, heightening the sense of urgency. The Pakistani police confirmed the incident, stating that they were working to determine the exact nature and origin of the blast.
#IndiaPakistanTensions #LahoreBombBlast #BreakingNews Many bomb explosion rocks Pakistani city Lahore and Lahore airport had been shut down immediately 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
It happened in Walton road ,Lahore 🔥🔥.
Back ti back 3 explosions 💣💣💣💣💣. pic.twitter.com/UZbgKSr8h6— SK (@itssanatani) May 8, 2025
Adding to the concern, unconfirmed reports mentioned a drone spotted near Walton Airport. Additionally, two loud blasts were heard near Askari 5 in Lahore, with smoke reported near Naval College. Authorities are yet to verify these claims.
In the morning prior to the explosions, Pakistan had closed key air routes in Lahore and Sialkot for commercial flights until noon, citing security measures. A fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued to keep these air routes closed, raising speculation about heightened security concerns.
Meanwhile, in Balochistan, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for two deadly attacks targeting Pakistani military personnel. At least 14 soldiers were killed in separate incidents in the Bolan and Kech districts, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing insurgency.
The first attack took place in the Shorkand area of Mach, Bolan district, where the BLA’s Special Tactical Operations Squad (STOS) deployed a remote-controlled IED, targeting a military convoy. The powerful blast reportedly killed all 12 soldiers on board, including Special Operations Commander Tariq Imran and Subedar Umar Farooq. The military vehicle was completely destroyed in the explosion.
Later the same day, BLA fighters struck a Bomb Disposal Squad in the Kulag Tigran area of Kech district with another remote-controlled IED. Two personnel died as the device detonated while they were conducting a clearance operation.
BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch released a statement asserting responsibility for both attacks. He criticized the Pakistani military, labeling it a mercenary force serving foreign interests, especially Chinese capital. He condemned the military presence in Balochistan, arguing that it suppresses local populations while exploiting the region’s resources.
The violence in Balochistan reflects long-standing grievances among the local population, who accuse the federal government of marginalization, economic exploitation, and human rights violations. Despite the region’s wealth of natural resources, locals often remain impoverished, with profits reportedly benefiting federal authorities and foreign investors.
Islamabad has repeatedly blamed external forces, particularly from Afghanistan, for stoking the insurgency. The Pakistani government alleges that groups like the BLA receive support from across the border, further complicating the security situation.
The twin crises in Lahore and Balochistan underscore the fragile security landscape in Pakistan. While the Lahore explosions sparked immediate fear and confusion, the attacks in Balochistan underline a protracted struggle that remains unresolved despite heavy military deployment.
Security analysts warn that the combination of external border tensions and internal insurgencies could strain Pakistan’s security apparatus, challenging its ability to maintain order. As the situation continues to develop, the government is likely to face increasing pressure to address both immediate threats and long-standing regional conflicts.
