Champions Trophy 2025: Terror Threat Triggers High Alert in Pakistan!
Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau (IB) has issued a high alert. A terror threat to foreign nationals has been reported for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. An India Today report says the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) plans to kidnap Chinese and Arab nationals for ransom.
Security forces have stepped up protection in Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi. These three cities will host the Champions Trophy matches.
Pakistan Increases Security Amid Growing Threats
According to CNN-News18, multiple terror outfits are now being closely monitored. This list includes Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, and groups based in Balochistan.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Authorities are monitoring ports, airports, offices, and residential areas.
- Security Deployment: More police and paramilitary forces are now in high-risk areas.
- International Alerts: Afghanistan’s intelligence agency (GDI) warns of possible attacks by ISKP.
Why India Refused to Travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy
Security concerns have long been a major issue for cricket events in Pakistan. The 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan team bus forced Pakistan to play its home matches in the UAE for a decade.
- India chose not to travel because of security risks. As a result, their matches will now be played in Dubai using a hybrid model.
- Teams such as Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan will all play at least one match in Pakistan.
- If a Group B team qualifies for the semifinals against India, they will travel to Dubai for the match.
ICC’s Hybrid Model Sparks Controversy
Cricketers, both former and current, have criticized the ICC’s hybrid model. They argue that it gives India an unfair edge since they play all their matches at one venue in Dubai.
Pakistan faces major security threats as it gears up to host international cricket. This concern is crucial with the tournament approaching.