Islamabad, August 12, 2025 — Following the United States’ designation of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its armed wing, the Majeed Brigade, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), Pakistan has announced plans to seek the extradition of prominent Baloch separatist leaders residing in the United Kingdom and other European Union countries.
The U.S. State Department’s decision, announced on August 11, 2025, was welcomed by Islamabad, which views it as a significant step in international counterterrorism efforts. The BLA has been implicated in several high-profile attacks in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, including the 2024 suicide bombings in Karachi and Gwadar, and the March hijacking of the Jaffar Express train, which resulted in 31 fatalities and over 300 hostages .
In response, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that it will pursue legal avenues to secure the return of key Baloch militants believed to be operating from abroad. Among those targeted are:()
Brahamdagh Bugti – Leader of the Baloch Republican Party, residing in Switzerland()
Hyrbyair Marri – Head of the Free Balochistan Movement, based in the United Kingdom
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Mehran Marri – Former leader of the United Baloch Army, also in the United Kingdom
Pakistan’s previous attempts to engage European authorities on this matter have met with limited success. Notably, in 2017, Swiss authorities arrested Mehran Marri at Zurich Airport and subsequently banned his entry, citing national security concerns .
The recent U.S. designation is expected to bolster Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, potentially facilitating cooperation with European counterparts in combating cross-border terrorism. Analysts suggest that this development may lead to increased scrutiny of Baloch separatist activities in Europe and prompt a reevaluation of asylum policies concerning individuals associated with designated terrorist organizations.