Pakistan Defence Minister Accuses US of Arming Baloch Rebels
Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has levelled a serious allegation, claiming that separatist Baloch rebels are using weapons supplied by the United States. He made these remarks during a session in the National Assembly on Monday.
Key Allegations by Khawaja Asif
Asif asserted that the weaponry used in attacks within Pakistan originates from the US. He further alleged that Washington is also providing financial backing to the rebel group.
“The weapons that are being used by the Baloch rebels are from the US. They are being used to carry out attacks in Pakistan,” Asif said.
“The US is providing financial support to the Baloch rebels. They are being given money to carry out attacks in Pakistan,” Asif said.
Context of Rising Tensions
These accusations surface during a period of heightened strain in Pakistan-US relations, primarily over American drone strikes on Pakistani soil. Pakistan has consistently condemned these strikes as violations of its sovereignty that result in civilian deaths. The US maintains that the operations are essential to target militants threatening its security.
Background on the Baloch Conflict
The Baloch rebels have waged a decades-long insurgency seeking independence from Pakistan. The group has been responsible for multiple attacks on security personnel and infrastructure in Balochistan province.
In a related geopolitical dimension, Pakistan has previously accused of supporting the Baloch rebels—a charge that New Delhi has firmly rejected.
