Bajaur Attack: Minister of State Mubarak Zeb Khan Targeted Again

BAJAUR, PAKISTAN – Early on Saturday morning, the residence of Minister of State Mubarak Zeb Khan in the Bajaur district was attacked by unidentified assailants using rocket fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by Khan himself, who expressed his relief at the lack of casualties. The attack marks the second violent incident targeting Khan's residence within a month; an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded at the same location on May 14, 2025.

According to a statement from the Minister, "Once again, my house was targeted at night with a rocket. Thankfully, no one was injured." Khan further mentioned that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed regarding the latest incident, and local police have commenced an investigation to ascertain the motives behind the attack and to detain those responsible.

Khan emphasized the need for heightened security, stating, "I will also raise this matter with higher authorities to ensure concrete action against such incidents." Citizens across various sectors have condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with the minister and calling for swift justice.

The Bajaur district, part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has a history of violence linked to militant activities and political unrest. This recent attack is indicative of the ongoing security challenges faced by public officials in the region.

In light of the recent surge in violence, Dr. Ayesha Farooq, a political analyst and Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Strategic Studies, Islamabad, noted, "The targeting of political figures is a troubling trend that undermines democratic processes in Pakistan. It is imperative that the government enhances security protocols for its officials."

Moreover, Dr. Samir Qureshi, a security expert at the National Defense University, highlighted the potential implications of such attacks on public trust in governance. "These incidents can lead to increased public anxiety and may deter individuals from entering politics, fearing for their safety," he stated.

Historically, the Bajaur region has witnessed numerous violent incidents, particularly in the wake of military operations against insurgent groups. The local populace, while expressing outrage over the attacks, has also called for a more robust engagement by law enforcement agencies to protect their representatives.

In conclusion, the attack on Mubarak Zeb Khan's residence underscores the precarious security situation in Pakistan, particularly in regions like Bajaur. As investigations continue, the government faces the pressing challenge of ensuring the safety of its elected officials while addressing the underlying issues contributing to such violence. The public is watching closely, hoping for a resolution that not only brings those responsible to justice but also fortifies the framework of governance against future threats.