Pakistan: In a significant development, Pakistan has launched retaliatory strikes against alleged “terrorist hideouts” in Iran, escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries. The operation, codenamed “Marg Bar Sarmachar” (Death to Terrorists), comes in response to Iran’s attack on the Balochi militant group Jaish al-Adl’s headquarters within Pakistani territory.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the military action, stating that the strikes were a result of an intelligence-based operation targeting specific militant hideouts in the Sistan-o-Baluchistan province of Iran. The operation reportedly resulted in the death of “a number of terrorists.” However, Iranian media reported a higher toll, claiming seven casualties, including four children.
The tit-for-tat exchanges between Pakistan and Iran began earlier this week when Iran conducted strikes on two bases of Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, using missiles and drones. The militant group, blacklisted by Iran, has been responsible for several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years.
Pakistan condemned Iran’s actions as a “violation of its airspace” and warned of “serious consequences.” The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad labeled the breach as an “unprovoked and blatant” violation of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
In response to Iran’s attack, Pakistan carried out precision military strikes, emphasizing its commitment to protecting national security. Islamabad referred to Iran as a “brotherly country” and clarified that the retaliatory action was solely aimed at safeguarding its own security interests.
The Foreign Ministry of Pakistan asserted that the country had consistently shared concerns with Iran regarding the presence of “Sarmachars,” referring to Pakistani origin terrorists, in ungoverned spaces within Iran. Pakistan claimed to have provided multiple dossiers with concrete evidence of the activities of these militants but alleged a lack of action on Iran’s part.
The statement highlighted the necessity of the recent operation, stating it was based on credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities by these militants. Pakistan emphasized its commitment to respecting Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As a consequence of the escalating tensions, Pakistan announced the recall of its ambassador from Iran and the suspension of all high-level visits between the two countries. The responsibility for the consequences was squarely placed on Iran by Pakistan.
This latest episode of cross-border hostilities adds a layer of complexity to regional dynamics, occurring simultaneously with the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict in the Middle East and a surge in attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. The situation warrants close international attention as the potential for further escalation remains a concern for regional stability.
Pakistan:
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