Airspace Violation
In a recent escalation between Iran and Pakistan, Iran’s foreign ministry emphasized its commitment to maintaining “amicable and brotherly relations” despite Pakistan’s retaliatory strikes over an airspace violation. Pakistan targeted terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, responding to Iran’s violation of its airspace just 48 hours prior.
Pakistan’s military, in an intelligence-based operation named ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar,’ struck hideouts used by terrorist organizations, including the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF). Iran reported nine casualties in the attack, labeling the victims as foreign nationals.
The Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan expressed serious concerns about safe havens for Pakistani origin terrorists within Iran, sharing multiple dossiers as evidence. The retaliatory action aimed to counter impending large-scale terrorist activities by these groups.
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Iran condemned the strikes, summoning Pakistan’s charge d’affaires to protest and seek an explanation. Despite tensions, Iran’s foreign ministry later affirmed its commitment to good neighborly relations while condemning what it deemed an “unbalanced and unacceptable drone attack on non-Iranian villagers.”
The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) clarified that the precision strikes targeted hideouts of notorious terrorists, emphasizing the use of various weaponry to minimize collateral damage. The ISPR advocated for dialogue and cooperation to address bilateral issues.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office highlighted the operation’s manifestation of the country’s unwavering resolve to protect national security. It emphasized Pakistan’s respect for Iran’s sovereignty, stating that the sole objective of the act was to pursue Pakistan’s security and national interest.
The situation prompted Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani to cut short their foreign visits. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to peaceful relations but asserted its readiness to protect its security and sovereignty. President Dr. Arif Alvi emphasized Pakistan’s unwillingness to compromise on national security, calling for global efforts to eliminate terrorism.
The developments underscore the complexities in the Iran-Pakistan relationship, with both countries expressing a desire for dialogue amid heightened tensions.
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