US, UK, and France Block Pakistan-China Bid to Label BLA and Majeed Brigade Terror Groups at UN

The United States, the United Kingdom, and France have temporarily blocked a joint proposal by Pakistan and China to designate the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and the Majeed Brigade as terrorist organizations under the United Nations 1267 sanctions regime. This move was made due to concerns over the lack of sufficient evidence linking these groups to Al Qaeda and the Islamic State (ISIL).

The proposal was presented to the UN Security Council’s Sanctions Committee, where Pakistan and China aimed to label these groups as terrorist entities to impose international sanctions to curb their activities. The UN 1267 sanctions regime primarily targets groups associated with Al Qaeda and ISIL.

However, the US announced a ‘technical hold’ on the motion, effectively pausing any immediate decision. The US delegation emphasized the need for clearer and stronger evidence tying the BLA and Majeed Brigade specifically to Al Qaeda or ISIL before proceeding with any designation.

Both the UK and France supported the US position, ensuring that the proposal will not move forward until the concerns regarding evidence are addressed. This joint hold highlights the importance that these countries place on strict criteria and robust evidence standards when labeling groups as terrorist organizations under international law.

Additional context includes:

• The BLA is a separatist group operating in the southwestern Balochistan province of Pakistan, accused by Islamabad of insurgent attacks and violent campaigns.
• The Majeed Brigade is recognized as one of the armed wings of the BLA.
• China views the BLA as a threat to its investments, especially the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a crucial part of its Belt and Road Initiative.

The Pakistani government has urged the international community to act decisively against these groups amid regional security concerns. China has vocally supported Pakistan’s request, citing economic interests and shared security priorities.

The decision by the US, UK, and France underscores the complexity involved in international terrorism designations, balancing political interests with evidentiary standards.

Future steps include further discussions by the UN Security Council as both sides provide additional information and responses. The outcome will have significant implications for regional security and broader counterterrorism efforts.

Stay tuned to Questiqa Europe News for the latest updates.

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