Pakistan Train Hijacking: A Deadly Standoff Leaves Hundreds Held Hostage
A severe crisis unfolded in Pakistan as militants, reportedly from the Baloch Liberation Army, hijacked a train carrying hundreds of passengers in Balochistan. Eyewitnesses described terrifying scenes as gunmen stormed the Jaffar Express after detonating explosives to derail the train, taking over 400 passengers hostage and threatening their lives. As security forces engaged in a tense standoff, rescue operations were complicated by the presence of suicide bombers among the militants. Authorities worked tirelessly to free the hostages, with around 200 individuals reportedly rescued amid ongoing fighting, but there are fears of casualties among those still held. The situation reflects a broader trend of escalating violence and insurgent activities in the region, posing significant challenges for Pakistani security forces.
BBC.com, The Washington Post, The Associated Press, ABC News, The Economic Times, Reuters, NDTV, The New York Times, The Times of India, CBS News