ISLAMABAD: Pakistan responded to the violation of its sovereignty by Iran with targeted military strikes on terrorist hideouts within the Iranian border. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement on Thursday, stating that the operation, codenamed “Marg Bar Sarmachar,” resulted in the elimination of several terrorists in the Siestan-o-Baluchistan province.
The retaliatory action followed Iran’s claim of launching “missile and drone” attacks on the Jaish al-Adl group’s headquarters in Balochistan’s “Green Mountain” area, causing casualties, including the death of two children and injuries to three girls.
Pakistan condemned Iran’s breach of sovereignty as an unprovoked violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.
The Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, emphasized Pakistan’s consistent communication of concerns regarding safe havens for Pakistani-origin terrorists within Iran. Despite sharing multiple dossiers with concrete evidence, Pakistan asserted that the lack of action allowed these terrorists, known as “Sarmachars,” to operate with impunity.
The military operation was carried out based on credible intelligence pointing to impending large-scale terrorist activities by the Sarmachars.
Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security and defending against all threats, highlighting the professionalism of its Armed Forces in executing the operation.
While acknowledging Iran as a brotherly country, the Foreign Office underscored Pakistan’s respect for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement clarified that the sole objective of the military action was to secure Pakistan’s own interests, emphasizing that such actions would not compromise the principles of international law or challenge the sovereignty of member states.
Pakistan expressed its commitment to dialogue and cooperation with Iran to address common challenges, including terrorism.
However, as a responsible member of the international community, Pakistan asserted its right to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In response to the escalating tensions, Islamabad downgraded diplomatic ties with Tehran, expelling Iran’s ambassador and recalling its own envoy.
Additionally, all high-level visits between Pakistan and Iran were suspended. Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani stressed to his Iranian counterpart that unilateral attacks on neighboring nations’ soil were not a recommended approach in combating terrorism, advocating for collaborative solutions instead.
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