The United States has forcefully condemned the Khuzdar school bus attack that killed six people, including four students. Dozens more were injured in the tragic incident that shocked the country.
According to officials, the school bus was carrying over 40 students when it came under attack. The explosion occurred as the vehicle was heading toward an educational institute in Khuzdar, Balochistan.
Natalie A Baker, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Islamabad, reacted strongly. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “We join Pakistan’s leaders in condemning the brutal, unconscionable attack on a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan.”
She called the murder of schoolchildren beyond understanding and offered heartfelt condolences. “We grieve with the families who lost loved ones,” she said. “Our thoughts are with those recovering.”
Baker emphasized that no child should live in fear of going to school. She added that the US supports all efforts in Pakistan to stop this violence. “We stand with those working to end the bloodshed,” she stated.
The Khuzdar school bus attack left the nation in mourning. Chief Minister of Balochistan, Sarfaraz Bugti, confirmed the death toll. Four children, the bus driver, and his assistant were martyred. Those with critical injuries were moved to CMH Quetta by air.
Local officials said more than 30 people were wounded in the explosion. Many of them were young students, some in serious condition.
Security agencies blamed Indian-backed militants for the deadly assault. The attack came nearly two weeks after Pakistan and India reached a ceasefire agreement following a tense period of conflict.
According to Khuzdar’s deputy commissioner, rescue operations were quick, and the injured were transported to nearby hospitals. But the scale of damage left families shattered.
The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), released a strong statement. It called the bombing a “cowardly and ghastly attack.” The ISPR said the attack was planned by the terrorist state of India and carried out by its proxies in Balochistan.
Security officials identified three of the children who lost their lives. They were Sania Soomoro from grade six, Hifza Kousar of grade seven, and Esha Saleem, a grade ten student.
The Khuzdar school bus attack has triggered outrage across the country. Leaders and citizens alike are demanding justice. Calls for stronger security and accountability are growing louder.
The Khuzdar school bus bombing stands as a tragic reminder of how terrorism continues to target innocent lives. The military has vowed to punish those behind this heinous act. Officials are also working to ensure such tragedies do not happen again.