An article published by The Diplomat has argued that the United States should support Pakistan’s efforts to designate the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a terrorist organization under the United Nations Security Council sanctions regime.
According to the publication, the BLA and its Majeed Brigade faction pose a growing threat to regional security, allegedly operating from safe havens in Afghanistan and possessing capabilities that extend beyond a localized insurgency.
The article noted that Pakistan, with the backing of China, approached the United Nations seeking to diplomatically and financially isolate the BLA on a global scale.
It highlighted that the United States has already designated both the BLA and the Majeed Brigade as terrorist organizations domestically, making its reported opposition to a UN designation a subject of debate.
The Diplomat argued that blocking the BLA’s inclusion on the UN sanctions list could undermine Pakistan-US counterterrorism cooperation and risk alienating an important regional security partner. The publication stated that a UN designation could have enabled the freezing of the group’s assets, the imposition of international travel bans, and restrictions on its funding channels and international networks.
The article further claimed that the BLA has repeatedly targeted projects linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Chinese nationals, and Pakistani interests, warning that its operational capabilities could pose broader threats in the future.
It also noted that future American investments and personnel could become vulnerable if the group’s activities continue unchecked.
Describing the issue as more than a technical diplomatic disagreement, The Diplomat said the US decision reflects a complex geopolitical balancing act.
The publication concluded that future actions by Washington will determine whether this approach strengthens or weakens the broader international fight against militant groups such as the BLA.
The article added that, despite the setback at the United Nations, Pakistan and China are likely to continue pursuing international efforts aimed at securing tougher action against the BLA.
