Qaseem Shah: Pakistan has been ranked as the world’s most terrorism-affected country in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026, overtaking Burkina Faso, as the country continues its long-standing fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
According to the report, 1,139 people lost their lives in terrorism-related incidents in Pakistan during 2025, representing an increase of nearly six percent compared to the previous year. While the number of terrorist attacks declined slightly from 1,098 in 2024 to 1,045 in 2025, hostage-taking incidents increased significantly, reflecting the evolving tactics of militant groups.
The report identifies Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the provinces most affected by terrorism. Together, they accounted for more than 74 percent of all terrorist attacks and 67 percent of terrorism-related fatalities recorded across Pakistan.
The Global Terrorism Index 2026 states that terrorist groups continued to target civilians, public infrastructure, and security forces, particularly in areas along Pakistan’s western border.
Among the terrorist outfits active in the country, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was identified as the deadliest group in 2026. According to the report, the organization carried out 595 attacks, resulting in 637 deaths during the year.
The report also highlights the passenger train hostage attack in Balochistan as one of the deadliest terrorist incidents of 2025. Terrorists derailed a train and took hundreds of passengers hostage, resulting in significant casualties before the situation was brought under control.
The Global Terrorism Index notes that Pakistan has faced the challenge of terrorism for more than two decades and continues to undertake extensive security and counterterrorism efforts to restore peace and stability.
The report underscores that the fight against terrorism remains a major national security priority, with authorities continuing operations aimed at dismantling militant networks, protecting civilians, and strengthening security across affected regions.
