The fresh wave of violence in Pakistan highlights its inability to deal with the militant threat

The bloodbath in Mastung last week was yet another grim reminder of the relentless rise of militant violence that is threatening national security.

The suicide attack on a Rabiul Awwal congregation in the Balochistan town left almost 60 people dead. At least five people were killed in a targeted attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the same day, swelling the number of fatalities.

It was one of the bloodiest days of the current year that has already recorded the highest number of casualties among security forces in the past eight years. Terrorist attacks have become almost a daily affair. The return of terrorism presents a most serious challenge to a nation mired in multiple crises. The spate of killings across the country demonstrates the expanding capacity of militant groups to carry out increasingly audacious operations.

While the administration silently watches the situation drift toward anarchy, armed marauders carry out their deadly attacks with impunity. The pattern and scale of violence indicate that the militants are better armed than before and well organised.

A report recently released by the Islamabad-based Centre for Research and Security Studies reveals a staggering 57% escalation in militant violence nationwide over the last quarter.

It’s an extremely alarming situation, raising questions regarding our counterterrorism strategy that appears to be faltering as militants...

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