Islamabad: A tense standoff continues in Pakistan as militants hold around 250 hostages on a hijacked train, with Pakistani security forces engaged in a high-stakes operation to secure their release. At least 30 militants have been killed in the intense gunfire exchanges since the standoff began on Tuesday, according to senior security officials.
The hijacking began when heavily armed militants stormed the train on its way from Karachi to Lahore, forcing the train to stop at an undisclosed location in the country’s restive western region. The attackers are believed to be linked to a militant faction operating along the Afghan-Pakistan border.
Rescue Efforts and Military Engagement
By late Wednesday, Pakistani security forces had managed to rescue 190 passengers out of the 450 initially on board. The operation involved:
- Special Forces Units leading the rescue effort.
- Helicopters and armored vehicles deployed to secure the perimeter.
- Negotiations with the militants reportedly ongoing, though no immediate breakthrough has been confirmed.
A senior military official stated, “We have contained the situation, but the militants are well-armed and using civilians as human shields, which complicates the operation.”
Casualties and Injuries
While 30 militants have been killed in the gunfight, at least 12 passengers have suffered injuries. The militants reportedly threatened to execute the hostages if security forces attempted a direct assault.
Medical teams and relief units have been dispatched to the scene, and injured passengers are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
Government and International Reaction
The Pakistani government has condemned the attack, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowing that those responsible will face severe consequences.
“This is an attack on the nation and an attempt to destabilize the country,” Sharif said in a televised address.
International leaders, including representatives from the United Nations, have called for a peaceful resolution and the safe release of the hostages.
Security Concerns and Militant Threat
Security analysts believe that the attack reflects rising militant activity in Pakistan’s western regions near the Afghan border. The country has witnessed a resurgence of militant violence, with several high-profile attacks targeting military installations, civilians, and infrastructure.
Experts warn that the train hijacking could signal a new phase of insurgent tactics aimed at undermining Pakistan’s internal security and political stability.
What’s Next
Security forces are reportedly preparing for a final assault if negotiations fail. However, the use of hostages as human shields remains a key challenge. The situation remains fluid, with authorities focusing on securing the safe release of the remaining 250 hostages.
