The State Department is designating a Pakistani militia, the Balochistan Liberation Army, as a terrorist group less than two weeks after signing a trade deal.

The US has classified the Pakistan-based Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its Majeed Brigade as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation. This move highlights the ongoing threats posed by the group, which seeks independence for the Baloch people and has been behind numerous attacks in Pakistan.

Pakistani officials have welcomed the U.S. State Department's decision to designate the separatist Balochistan Liberation Army as a foreign terrorist organization.