Tensions Escalate Between Pakistan and Iran:
In a series of retaliatory actions, Pakistan reportedly targeted the strongholds of two Baloch separatist groups, namely the Balochistan Liberation Front and the Balochistan Liberation Army, situated near the city of Saravan in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province. This move follows Iran’s earlier assault on the headquarters of the Jaish al-Adl group in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province.
The Iranian strike on Jaish al-Adl, executed with “missile and drone” technology on Tuesday, was described by Iran as a decisive response to perceived threats against its national security. In response, Pakistan condemned the violation of its airspace, cautioning Iran about the potential serious consequences of such actions.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement on Wednesday, labeled Iran’s incursion into its sovereignty as an “unprovoked and blatant breach” of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. The Ministry asserted that the act was unjustifiable and emphasized Pakistan’s right to respond to this breach, holding Iran accountable for any ensuing consequences.
Expressing their displeasure, Pakistan conveyed a strong message to the Iranian Government and announced immediate measures, including the recall of its ambassador from Iran and the suspension of all high-level visits between the two countries. The spokesperson further indicated a temporary halt to the return of the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, who was in Iran at the time.
The ongoing conflict unfolds against the backdrop of heightened tensions in the Middle East, specifically the Hamas-Israeli conflict, and incidents involving commercial vessels in the Red Sea. As the situation continues to evolve, diplomatic channels are strained, and the international community closely monitors the developments in the region.