Pakistan high alert over terror threats for ICC Champions Trophy

Dubai, : The Pakistan Intelligence Bureau has reportedly issued a high alert over a possible terror threat for foreign cricketers and fans attending the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan. According to the security alert, active covert groups are plotting to kidnap foreigners who may have come to visit the country to watch ICC
Champions Trophy matches. The country’s intel warned the security forces about alleged conspiracies to abduct foreign nationals attending the ICC event. The threat is from multiple terror groups like Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS and other Balochistan-based groups. Currently Pakistan is hosting the ICC event after 27 years.
Countries like England, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh, Australia, and Afghanistan are participating in the Champions Trophy 2025. Though, Pakistan wanted to put forth a strong momentum with the ICC event, such terror threats have put a damper on its plans. Now, the country’s ability to manage high-profile international
tournaments are being questioned. The nation has a history of underplaying attacks
on foreign nationals, with past incidents such as the 2024 attack on Chinese engineers in Shangla and the 2009 assault on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore raising serious questions about its security preparedness. Citing threats from terrorist
groups, India declined to travel to Pakistan due to safety concerns, opting instead to play
its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. Security risks and ongoing geopolitical tensions are believed to be the key reasons behind India’s choice to stay away from Pakistan.