Deadly blast hits Pakistan train, killing 24

A devastating blast targeting a train carrying military personnel and their families in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province has killed at least 24 people and wounded more than 50.

The explosion occurred near Quetta as the train, en route from Quetta to Peshawar for the Eid holiday, passed a signal point. Officials stated that an explosive-laden vehicle struck a carriage, causing a powerful blast that shattered windows and damaged nearby vehicles. The impact derailed part of the train, leaving a mangled carriage on its side as rescuers worked to extract victims from the wreckage.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denounced the attack, labeling it a "tragic loss of innocent lives" and a "cowardly act of terrorism." The province's chief minister, Sarfraz Bugti, echoed the condemnation, highlighting that "innocent civilians, including women and children," were targeted. He pledged a thorough investigation to apprehend those responsible.

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest and poorest province, has a history of unrest and militant violence, with frequent targeting of security forces, government facilities, and civilians. Despite authorities' claims of containment, violence persists, including a deadly suicide bombing at a train station in 2024 that claimed at least 26 lives.

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innocent civilians, including women and children