Pakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index 2026 Amid Rising Violence

Pakistan has ranked first in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026, marking the first time it has topped the list. The report, released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), highlights a concerning rise in terrorism-related fatalities and incidents across the country in 2025. The development reflects worsening security conditions and growing regional instability.

Sharp Rise in Terrorism-Related Deaths

According to the report, Pakistan recorded 1,139 deaths due to terrorism in 2025, representing a six percent increase compared to the previous year. This marks the highest number of terror-related deaths in the country since 2013. The surge underscores a deteriorating internal security environment and increasing operational activity by militant groups.

Role of TTP and BLA in Escalating Violence

The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains the primary driver of terrorism in the country, accounting for over 67 percent of attacks since 2009. In 2025 alone, TTP attacks rose by 24 percent to 595 incidents, largely concentrated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa near the Afghanistan border. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) also contributed to the unrest, though at a significantly lower scale compared to TTP.

Regional Factors and Afghanistan Link

The report attributes the escalation partly to strained relations with neighbouring Afghanistan and the resurgence of the Afghan Taliban. This has enhanced the operational capabilities and reach of TTP, enabling it to expand geographically and intensify attacks. The cross-border dynamics have played a critical role in shaping the current security scenario.

Important Facts for Exams

• Global Terrorism Index is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP).
• Pakistan ranked first in GTI 2026 with 1,139 terror-related deaths.
• TTP is responsible for the majority of terrorist incidents in Pakistan.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a key hotspot for terrorist activity.

Increase in Hostage-Taking and Global Rankings

A significant rise in hostage-taking incidents was also recorded, with victims increasing from 101 in 2024 to 655 in 2025. A major incident contributing to this spike was the Jaffar Express attack, where 442 individuals were taken hostage. In the GTI 2026 rankings, Pakistan was followed by Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria and Mali, indicating a broader concentration of terrorism in conflict-prone regions.