Pakistan experienced a slight increase in militant activity in May 2025, with 85 attacks recorded across the country—a 5% uptick from the 81 incidents reported in April—according to a monthly security report by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).
Despite heightened tensions with neighboring India, militant groups did not significantly escalate their activities. However, the data reflects continued instability, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), which together accounted for 82 of the 85 attacks reported nationwide.
These attacks resulted in 113 fatalities, including 52 members of the security forces, 46 civilians, 11 militants, and four members of local peace committees. Additionally, 182 people were injured—130 civilians, 47 security personnel, four militants, and one peace committee member.
A closer look at the data reveals troubling trends. Deaths among security forces jumped by 73%, underscoring the heightened risks faced by law enforcement and military personnel. Civilian injuries also rose sharply, increasing by 145% from 53 in April to 130 in May. On the other hand, security personnel injuries dropped by 20%, falling from 59 to 47.
Security operations during the month resulted in the deaths of 59 suspected militants, while five members of the security forces also lost their lives. Seven personnel and five militants sustained injuries in these actions, and 52 suspects were apprehended in intelligence-based operations.
The total number of casualties from militant attacks and counterterror operations in May stood at 172, comprising 57 security personnel, 65 militants, 46 civilians, and four members of peace committees. The number of injured rose to 194, including 130 civilians, 54 security personnel, nine militants, and one peace committee member. Militants also abducted at least 19 individuals during the month.
One concerning development was the significant decline in militant fatalities—down 68% from 203 in April to 65 in May. This marked the first month since October 2024 where militant deaths remained in double digits, raising questions about the efficacy of recent counterinsurgency efforts.
Balochistan witnessed the highest level of violence, with 35 attacks resulting in 51 deaths. Among the deceased were 30 civilians, 18 security personnel, and three militants. The province also saw 100 people injured—94 civilians, five security personnel, and one militant. Additionally, nine individuals were abducted. A tragic incident occurred in Khuzdar, where an Army Public School bus was targeted in a blast, killing eight children—mostly girls—and two staff members, while injuring 35 others.
The merged tribal districts of KP (formerly FATA) faced 22 attacks, leading to 45 deaths, including 23 security personnel, 12 civilians, six militants, and four peace committee members. Fifty-eight people were injured in this region, consisting of 30 security personnel, 27 civilians, and one peace committee member. A controversial quadcopter strike in North Waziristan killed four children, prompting widespread protests. Security officials claimed that militants had dropped an explosive device via drone, but the public demanded an independent investigation.
In mainland KP (excluding the tribal regions), 25 attacks claimed 14 lives—10 security personnel, and two civilians and militants each. Twenty-four people were injured, including 12 security personnel, nine civilians, and three militants.
Sindh reported three militant incidents, resulting in the deaths of two civilians and one security officer. No attacks were reported in Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, or Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). However, Punjab recorded the highest number of arrests, with 39 suspected militants detained. In AJK, security forces conducted a raid in Rawalakot, killing four alleged members of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
While the overall increase in attacks remains modest, the rise in security force casualties and civilian harm suggests that militant groups continue to pose a serious threat to Pakistan’s internal stability.
