Khawaja Asif: Pakistan Forces 'Physically Handicapped' in Balochistan Due to Vast Geography

• Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that security forces in Balochistan are 'physically handicapped' by the province's vast geography, making counter-terror operations challenging.
• Balochistan constitutes over 40% of Pakistan's landmass, posing significant operational difficulties despite massive force deployment.
• Asif alleged a nexus between criminals and militants, claiming gangs operate under the banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) to protect smugglers.
• He also accused India of backing 'proxies' in Balochistan and stated that Afghan soil is used to support terrorism, with militant leadership based there.
• Asif dismissed claims of deprivation and 'missing persons' allegations, asserting that Balochistan has seen development and that terrorists' names appear on such lists.

Why It Matters: Pakistan's Defence Minister admits geographical challenges hinder security forces in Balochistan amid rising terror attacks.