Bomb Blast in Balochistan Kills Seven, Injures Many

A motorcycle bomb exploded near a police vehicle in Mastung, Balochistan, Pakistan, killing seven people, including five schoolchildren and a police officer, and injuring at least 22 others. The attack occurred in a crowded area near a school, and while no group has claimed responsibility, suspicion falls on Baloch separatist factions, which have heightened violence recently. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Balochistan's chief minister condemned the attack and reaffirmed their commitment to combating insurgency in the region. Balochistan has a long history of separatist violence, notably from the Baloch Liberation Army, which has targeted security forces and Chinese nationals working on development projects. This incident comes amidst rising tensions regarding the safety of foreign workers in the area, particularly as China has urged Pakistan to enhance security for its nationals involved in the Belt and Road Initiative. The local health department has declared an emergency following the attack to manage the influx of casualties.