Pakistan witnessed its deadliest year in more than a decade in 2025, with conflict-related deaths rising sharply by 74 per cent compared to the previous year, according to a new report released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS)
Terror-related deaths surge in 2025
PICSS data shows that 3,413 people were killed in terror-related violence across Pakistan in 2025, up from 1,950 deaths recorded in 2024. The report attributes the sharp rise to an increase in suicide bombings, intensified counterterrorism operations, and the growing use of advanced weapons by militant groups.
Of the total fatalities, 2,138 were terrorists — a 124 per cent increase compared to the previous year — reflecting large-scale military operations against groups such as Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).
Suicide attacks and US weapons cited
Abdullah Khan, Managing Director of PICSS, said the rising death toll was partly driven by a spike in suicide bombings and the militants’ use of sophisticated US military equipment left behind after the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.
PICSS recorded at least 1,066 terrorist attacks in 2025, with suicide attacks alone rising by 53 per cent to 26 incidents. Khan said these weapons significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of militant outfits.
Civilian and security force casualties rise
The report highlighted a troubling increase in casualties among civilians and security personnel. In 2025, 667 security personnel were killed — a 26 per cent rise and the highest annual toll since 2011. Civilian deaths also climbed to 580, marking the highest figure since 2015. Additionally, 28 members of pro-government peace committees lost their lives.
Security forces reportedly arrested around 500 militants during intelligence-based operations, nearly double the figure recorded in 2024.
Afghan-Pakistan tensions intensify
The surge in violence coincided with worsening tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Islamabad accusing the Taliban government in Kabul of allowing cross-border attacks by Pakistani militants — an allegation denied by Afghanistan.
Border clashes since October have killed dozens, forced the closure of all border crossings, and halted trade and civilian movement. Pakistan’s newly appointed army chief Asim Munir has warned Kabul to choose between ties with Islamabad or support for the Pakistani Taliban.
Analysts warn that unless regional security coordination improves, Pakistan may continue to face prolonged instability.