Targeting of "Belt and Road" Projects in Pakistan and the Death of 17 People

Seventeen people were killed in attacks in northwest Pakistan on Monday, amid official accusations of "Indian agents" being behind two suicide bombings and armed assaults.

According to authorities, the bombings resulted in the deaths of three civilians, including a young girl, in addition to 14 security personnel. Three police officers and three militants were also killed during a search operation in the Shangla area, where police stated that the deceased militants were involved in attacks targeting Chinese citizens.

Police indicated a "continuing threat to the strategic corridor and Chinese development projects," referring to the investments being made by Beijing in Pakistan under the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to develop infrastructure and enhance economic connectivity across Asia and other regions.