ISLAMABAD: (HRNW) According to the latest Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026 published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Pakistan has been ranked as the country most impacted by terrorism in the world. This marks the first time since the index’s inception that Pakistan has topped the list, overtaking Burkina Faso. The report highlights a deteriorating security landscape, noting a 6% increase in terrorism-related deaths, reaching their highest levels since 2013.
The report identifies the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) as the primary drivers of this resurgence. The TTP has significantly expanded its operational reach, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, following the geopolitical shifts in neighboring Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the BLA has intensified its activities in Balochistan, targeting security personnel and key infrastructure. Together, these regions accounted for over 74% of all terrorist attacks in the country during the assessment period.
Key Findings from the 2026 Report:
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Casualty Surge: Pakistan recorded 1,139 deaths and 1,045 incidents in 2025, a sharp escalation that mirrors the country’s most volatile periods between 2009 and 2013.
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Hostage Crisis: A massive spike in hostage-taking was recorded, with victims jumping from 101 in 2024 to 655 in 2025, largely driven by high-profile attacks like the Jaffar Express incident.
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Regional Hub: Along with Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, and the DRC, Pakistan is now part of a group of five nations where nearly 70% of all global terrorism deaths occur.
The findings underscore a “security vacuum” and emphasize the urgent need for a coordinated national response to address the root causes of extremism and the porous nature of border security.
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