Terrorist group Daesh admits responsibility for a suicide bombing at a political rally in Pakistan, resulting in 15 deaths

A suicide bombing took place at a political rally in Pakistan's Balochistan province on Tuesday night, claiming at least 15 lives and injuring 32 others. The attack occurred shortly after Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the head of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), and his allies left the rally.

The target of the attack was supporters and senior leaders of the BNP-M, who had gathered to mark the fourth death anniversary of party founder Attaullah Mengal. The explosion was caused by a suicide bomber who detonated about 10 kilograms of explosives.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos following the explosion. Eight of the injured are in critical condition and have been shifted to the Combined Military Hospital. Dr. Waseem Baig, spokesperson for the provincial health department, confirmed that teams are working around the clock to treat the wounded.

The Daesh group claimed responsibility for the attack, marking the latest in a series of bombings carried out by militants in Balochistan. The province, Pakistan's largest and most impoverished, has been grappling with a separatist insurgency for decades.

BNP-M remains a key political force in Balochistan's majority-Baloch districts. Sardar Akhtar Mengal escorted political allies out of the rally when the explosion occurred. Mengal stated that the government did not inform them of any threat alert before the rally.

In response to the attack, Mengal declared a three-day mourning period and a "black day" across Balochistan. The provincial government has imposed Section 144 in the province, giving the government and local administration emergency powers to maintain public order and safety.

China, which has invested heavily in ports, roads, and energy projects in Balochistan as part of its Belt and Road Initiative, has expressed its condolences over the attack. Further actions will be announced after discussions with aligned political parties according to Mengal.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Balochistan and the need for continued efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.