Geneva: The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed its deep concern over the recent deadly attack in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, which resulted in the deaths of 20 mineworkers and serious injuries to seven others. The incident, involving armed assailants using hand grenades and rocket launchers, marks a significant escalation in violence aimed at stoking ethnic tensions in the region.

According to Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the attacks last Friday are part of a troubling pattern over recent months targeting ethnic minorities. The UN body emphasized the responsibility of Pakistani authorities to bring those responsible to justice and to prevent further attacks, aligning with the country’s international human rights obligations.

The Human Rights Office also voiced concerns over Pakistan’s recent decision to ban the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement under anti-terrorism laws, a group that advocates for the rights and concerns of the Pashtun community. The UN called for a prompt review of this ban to ensure it complies with international standards for freedom of expression and association and demanded the release of members held in administrative detention.

The statement further encourages the Pakistani government to engage in political dialogue to address the grievances of ethnic minorities, safeguard human rights defenders, and uphold the freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.