Kathmandu— On August 2, 2026, a suicide bombing killed 14 people and injured numerous others at an anti-militancy rally in Kabal, Pakistan's northwestern Swat Valley. The attack occurred as demonstrators gathered outside a local police station to protest the growing militant violence and the government’s perceived failure to protect citizens.

Protesters' Frustration

The rally was organized in response to escalating militant activities in the region. Protesters accused authorities of not taking decisive action against militants, expressing their desire for safety after years of violence. The area is significant as it was once home to Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, who survived a Taliban assassination attempt there in 2012.

Local police officials reported that the bomber detonated his explosives when asked for a search near the entrance of the police station.

Government Response

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif both condemned the attack, with President Zardari stating, “Terrorists will never succeed in their nefarious efforts to harm peace, national unity and the writ of the state.”

Pakistan has seen a recent increase in militant attacks targeting police and security forces. The Swat Valley was once under Taliban control but regained government authority after military operations between 2007 and 2009.

TTP's Resurgence

The Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has recently become more active in the region. The TTP is allied with Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers but operates independently within Pakistan. Islamabad accuses Kabul of supporting militant groups like the TTP and vows to continue targeting these organizations.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.