Pakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index in 2026
Pakistan has been ranked the country most affected by terrorism in the Global Terrorism Index 2026, even as terrorism-related deaths worldwide fell to their lowest level in a decade. The latest assessment points to a sharp worsening in Pakistan’s internal security situation, driven by militant violence and cross-border instability.
Pakistan Terror Ranking In 2026
The report says Pakistan’s position reflects a steep rise in militant activity during 2025, with terrorism deaths crossing 1,000 and attacks also increasing sharply. Much of the deterioration has been linked to instability along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, where armed groups have intensified operations. Pakistan had ranked second in the previous edition, so this move to the top marks a significant worsening.
Global Terror Deaths Fall Overall
Despite Pakistan’s deterioration, the wider global picture showed improvement. Terrorism deaths worldwide fell by 28 percent in 2025, taking the total to the lowest level seen in ten years. The number of large-scale attacks also declined globally. However, the improvement was uneven, with some countries seeing sharp deterioration even as the broader global average improved.
Why The Threat May Still Grow
The report warns that the decline in global deaths may not last. It says future terrorism risks could rise again because of expanding conflicts, weaker international stability, economic stress and the increasing use of drones and newer technology by militant groups. It also highlights growing concern over youth radicalisation and faster online recruitment, suggesting that the overall drop may be only temporary rather than a lasting reversal.
