ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Foreigners Not Safe in Pakistan? Islamic State Plans Attacks on Overseas Visitors, Check

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is currently underway in Pakistan, attracting cricket fans from around the world. However, the tournament has now been overshadowed by a serious security alert. Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau has warned of a potential attack by the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), specifically targeting foreign visitors attending the matches. The intelligence report suggests that ISKP is planning to kidnap foreign nationals for ransom.

Pakistan Issues Alert Over Threat to Foreign Visitors During ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Security measures have been heightened for all teams and spectators attending the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite this, a new intelligence alert has raised concerns among cricket fans. Reports indicate that ISKP operatives are monitoring key locations frequently visited by foreign nationals, including ports, airports, business offices and residential areas. The risk of an attack has led authorities to issue fresh guidelines to ensure the safety of visitors.

According to media reports, the terror group has devised a plan to rent properties on the outskirts of major cities to use as hideouts. These safe houses are strategically chosen to avoid security cameras and can only be accessed via motorcycles or rickshaws to evade surveillance. The group also intends to move kidnapped individuals between these locations during nighttime to escape detection by security forces.

History of Attacks on Cricket Teams in Pakistan Raises Fresh Concerns

Pakistan has a history of security threats against foreign cricket teams. In 2009, the Sri Lankan cricket team was targeted by terrorists, leading to a long period where international teams refused to play in Pakistan. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the first major ICC event hosted by Pakistan in nearly 28 years. However, reports of a possible attack on foreign visitors have created panic among cricket fans and officials alike.

Afghanistan’s Intelligence Also Warns of Islamic State Threat

Afghanistan’s intelligence agency has also issued a warning about the Islamic State’s growing presence in the region. This has added to the concerns surrounding the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate the risks and ensure that the tournament proceeds without incident. 

Pakistan’s Performance in ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Adds to Woes

Amid the security concerns, Pakistan’s performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been disappointing. On February 23, Pakistan suffered a crushing six-wicket defeat against India. Their struggles continued with another loss against New Zealand, further diminishing their chances of progressing in the tournament. The team’s poor performance, combined with rising security threats, has left Pakistani cricket fans disheartened.