India, Feb. 4 -- Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has acknowledged in the National Assembly that the country's security forces face significant operational challenges in countering Baloch insurgents due to the vast geographical expanse of the region.

His remarks come amid a recent surge in violence in Balochistan, where separatist militants have carried out major attacks.

According to reports, the recent strikes resulted in the deaths of dozens of security personnel and caused extensive damage to public property.

"There is a physical handicap when it comes to guarding and patrolling such a large area," Asif was quoted by local media as telling lawmakers.

The minister also claimed that the insurgents are equipped with sophistic...