Australia has imposed new counterterrorism financing sanctions on the banned militant group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and several of its senior leaders for their alleged involvement in terrorist activities across Pakistan. The announcement was made by Penny Wong, who said the sanctions target individuals and networks linked to violent attacks against civilians, infrastructure, and foreign nationals.
According to Australian authorities, the BLA has been involved in multiple deadly incidents in Pakistan, especially in Balochistan. The sanctions are aimed at blocking financial resources that could help militant organisations continue their operations, recruitment, and propaganda activities. Australia stated that its commitment to fighting terrorism and violent extremism remains strong and that it will continue working with international partners to dismantle terror financing networks.
Under the new measures, it will now be a criminal offence in Australia to use, transfer, or provide assets to any sanctioned person or entity linked to the BLA. Violations of Australian sanctions laws can result in heavy financial penalties and prison sentences of up to 10 years.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged the international community and the United Nations Security Council to take strict action against the BLA due to its involvement in attacks that have killed both civilians and security personnel.
Earlier this year, coordinated attacks across several cities and towns in Balochistan reportedly resulted in the deaths of dozens of civilians and members of the security forces. Pakistani authorities blamed India-backed militant elements for the violence. In response, security forces launched a large-scale counterterrorism operation in which more than 190 militants were reportedly killed.
Australia’s move follows similar action taken by the United States, which previously designated the BLA and its faction, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation.
