A new report published by The Diplomat has called on the United States to support Pakistan’s efforts at the United Nations to designate the banned Balochistan Liberation Army and its affiliated Majeed Brigade as global terrorist entities, arguing that the group now poses risks beyond Pakistan’s borders.
The analysis suggests that the BLA has evolved from a localized insurgent outfit into a network capable of contributing to broader regional instability, particularly in South and Central Asia.
UN designation seen as key step
According to the report, Pakistan and China have jointly pushed for a United Nations listing that would allow member states to freeze assets, impose travel bans, and restrict financial channels linked to the group.
Such a designation, the report argues, would significantly disrupt the operational capacity of the BLA by limiting its access to funding networks and international mobility.
It also notes that a coordinated UN-level response would strengthen global counter-terrorism enforcement mechanisms at a time when non-state armed groups are increasingly operating across borders.
Questions over US position
The report highlights that the United States has already designated both the BLA and Majeed Brigade as terrorist organisations domestically. However, it raises questions over Washington’s stance regarding a UN-level listing process.
The Diplomat suggests that any delay or opposition from the US could complicate broader counter-terrorism cooperation with Pakistan and China, framing the issue as part of a wider geopolitical balancing act rather than a purely procedural matter.
Regional security concerns cited
The analysis further claims that the group benefits from alleged safe havens in Afghanistan, which continue to pose challenges for regional security and intelligence coordination.
It argues that the BLA’s operational reach has expanded beyond local targets, making it a concern for regional stability rather than solely a domestic security issue.
Also read: Bilawal welcomes US ban on BLA, Majeed Brigade
Attacks on CPEC and foreign nationals
The report notes that the BLA has been linked to attacks on China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, Chinese nationals, and Pakistani security and civilian targets.
It warns that if such networks are not disrupted at the international level, the group could continue to expand its operational capacity and pose longer-term security risks.
Strategic interests and wider implications
The Diplomat also highlights that Balochistan holds significant mineral resources, which could attract future international investment. It warns that instability in the region could also pose risks to foreign personnel and projects if militant activity persists.
The report argues that this makes the issue relevant not only for Pakistan and China but also for the United States and other global stakeholders with strategic and economic interests in the region.
Call for coordinated international action
The publication concludes that a balanced international response is necessary to address evolving security threats posed by non-state armed groups. It argues that a UN designation would enhance global counter-terrorism coordination through sanctions, asset freezes, and diplomatic isolation.
While acknowledging diplomatic complexities, the report suggests that efforts to secure international consensus are likely to continue, and that future US decisions could influence the effectiveness of global counter-terrorism frameworks.
