Author: Brahag Baloch
In revolutionary movements, the capture of a major city often marks a turning point, increasing the likelihood of regional control or the success of a broader revolution. History provides numerous examples of this pattern. In the Cuban Revolution of 1959, rebels led by Che Guevara captured the city of Santa Clara. This pivotal victory allowed Fidel Castro to march toward Havana and enter the capital as a triumphant leader.
The Chinese Revolution of 1949 followed a similar trajectory. Before securing Beijing, the Communists first gained control of major cities like Shanghai and Nanjing. Likewise, during the Vietnam War, communist forces captured Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), signaling the collapse of South Vietnam, even though Hanoi was the political capital at the time.
A comparable scenario unfolded recently in Syria, where rebels captured the strategic city of Aleppo, delivering a significant blow to the Syrian military. The armed resistance in Syria began in 2011 as a reaction to the suppression of peaceful protests. The Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, fought fiercely against the uprising. However, after 13 years of conflict, Syrian rebels have managed to gain control of several key regions, underscoring the resilience and determination of the opposition forces.
Drawing a parallel to Balochistan, the region has experienced armed resistance since the entry of Pakistani forces, a struggle that continues to this day. Pakistan, plagued by economic, social, and moral crises, claims the status of a nuclear power, yet its leadership is often seen appealing for international financial aid. The country’s true power lies with its military establishment, which has exploited national resources to build personal business empires abroad. These conditions have led to growing discontent among Pakistan’s provinces, including Punjab, and intensified the grievances of the Baloch people.
In Balochistan, widespread human rights violations and state led repression have driven many young Baloch to join armed resistance groups. These organizations, often referred to as “Sarmachars” in the Baloch language, have evolved into well-structured military forces with functioning media cells and intelligence units. Their operations have grown in scale and effectiveness, as seen in events like “Operation Dara-e-Bolan,” during which the insurgents controlled the Bolan district for three days, and “Operation Herof,” which involved 44 major attacks across 13 districts. These actions demonstrate the insurgents’ capability to challenge state forces across multiple fronts.
Given these developments, Balochistan could potentially witness dramatic scenes reminiscent of Syria’s recent history. The possibility of Baloch insurgents capturing a major city, such as Turbat, and advancing toward the Balochistan capital, Quetta, cannot be ruled out. Such a scenario would mark a significant turning point in the region’s long standing conflict, drawing global attention to the plight and aspirations of the Baloch people.
While the outcomes remain uncertain, the trajectory of the Baloch resistance suggests that the region’s struggle for autonomy is far from over. Whether it leads to a dramatic shift in power dynamics or further entrenched conflict, Balochistan’s fate will undoubtedly continue to resonate within the broader narrative of revolutionary resistance worldwide.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Balochistan Post or any of its editors.