Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau has issued a high alert regarding potential threats from the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The bureau warns that ISKP plans to kidnap foreign nationals, particularly Chinese and Arab visitors attending the tournament, aiming to demand ransom. Intelligence reports indicate that ISKP operatives are conducting surveillance of key locations and intend to rent properties on city outskirts as safe houses. These properties are deliberately chosen in areas lacking camera surveillance and are accessible only by rickshaw or motorcycle, facilitating covert movements. The group plans to transfer kidnapped individuals between safe houses during nighttime to evade security forces.
This development has intensified concerns about Pakistan’s capability to ensure the safety of international events. The nation has a history of security challenges, notably the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, which led to a prolonged absence of international cricket in the country. More recently, in 2024, Chinese engineers were targeted in Shangla, further highlighting vulnerabilities. These incidents have raised questions about Pakistan’s preparedness to host major international tournaments securely. newsbytesapp.com
In response to the current threat, Pakistan’s security agencies have reportedly enhanced protective measures for teams and players participating in the Champions Trophy. The tournament, which commenced on February 19 and is scheduled to conclude on March 9, 2025, is being co-hosted by Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Due to longstanding security concerns, India has refused to play on Pakistani soil, leading to a hybrid hosting model where India’s matches are held in Dubai. This arrangement underscores the persistent apprehensions surrounding Pakistan’s security environment.
Afghanistan’s intelligence agency has also issued warnings about potential ISKP attacks on significant locations. The agency is intensifying efforts to locate missing operatives associated with the group. This collaborative vigilance between neighboring countries highlights the transnational nature of the threat posed by ISKP. Notably, in the previous year, ISKP-affiliated Al Azaim Media released a video condemning cricket as a Western instrument against Muslims, alleging that it promotes nationalism and propaganda contrary to jihadist ideology. This rhetoric indicates the group’s ideological opposition to the sport and its international events.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks a significant moment for Pakistan, as it is the first major International Cricket Council tournament hosted by the country since 1996. The event features eight teams divided into two groups:
- Group A: Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan.
- Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa.
Matches are being held across various venues in Pakistan and the UAE, with the final scheduled for March 9 in Lahore. However, if India qualifies for the final, it will be relocated to Dubai, reflecting ongoing security and diplomatic considerations. theaustralian.com.au
The tournament’s organization has not been without challenges. Political tensions have influenced the scheduling and venues, particularly concerning matches involving India and Afghanistan. Afghanistan’s inclusion has been contentious due to the Taliban’s policies, especially those affecting women’s participation in sports. Despite calls for boycotts and political protests, the matches are proceeding as planned, albeit under heightened security measures. apnews.com
The current security alert necessitates a reassessment of protective strategies to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees. The international cricket community, along with local authorities, must collaborate closely to address these threats effectively. The successful conduct of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hinges on robust security protocols and the collective resolve to counteract extremist elements aiming to disrupt the event.
