Pakistan sees overall decline in violence despite high-profile attacks: PICSS

Pakistan witnessed a decrease in overall anti-state violence and related security incidents during June, according to a report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).

The Islamabad-based think tank reported that 184 terrorists were killed in operations by Pakistani security forces, constituting the majority of the 262 fatalities recorded during the month. In addition, 52 civilians and 26 security forces personnel lost their lives, while 63 civilians, 50 security forces personnel, and 18 pro-government peace committee members were injured. The number of injured terrorists was three.

Compared to May, fatalities among Pakistani security forces dropped by 62%, and civilian deaths decreased by 27%. Terrorist deaths also saw a 32% reduction. Kidnappings declined by 50%, with 27 people abducted in June compared to 54 in May. Security forces also arrested at least 27 suspected terrorists.

Despite the overall decline, PICSS noted the persistence of "high-impact attacks," including at least four suicide bombings. The report highlighted a significant reduction in terrorism in Balochistan, with 49 attacks in June compared to 71 in May. The former tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also saw a decrease. However, the rest of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced a slight increase in attacks, and Sindh recorded a rise from one attack in May to four in June.