Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran and suspend all ongoing or planned high-level visits between the two countries. The decision follows what the Foreign Office (FO) termed an “unprovoked violation of its airspace” by Tehran. Iran, however, asserts that it targeted an “Iranian terrorist group” and emphasizes that no Pakistani nationals were harmed.
Incident Details: Late on Tuesday night, the FO released a statement denouncing the strikes in Pakistani territory, resulting in casualties. While the FO did not disclose the location, Iranian state media reported the attack in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan.
The attack targeted the headquarters of the Jaish al-Adl, according to Iran’s Nour News agency and Tasnim news agency.
Pakistan’s Response: FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, in a press briefing, condemned the “unprovoked and blatant breach of Pakistan’s sovereignty by Iran.” Baloch asserted that the illegal act is “completely unacceptable” and stated that Pakistan reserves the right to respond.
The decision to recall the ambassador and suspend high-level visits signals Islamabad’s strong stance on defending its sovereignty.
Iran’s Perspective: Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, alleges that Iran’s armed forces targeted an “Iranian terrorist group” and emphasized that no Pakistani nationals were affected. He claims that the Jaish Al Adl group, an Iranian terrorist organization, was the specific target due to its recent deadly attacks, particularly in Sistan-Baluchistan.
International Reactions: China, urging restraint, has called on both Pakistan and Iran to avoid actions escalating tension. China considers both nations as close neighbors and major Islamic countries, emphasizing the need for peace and stability.
The incident raises concerns about regional stability, prompting calls for dialogue and cooperation.
Domestic Condemnations: The incident triggered condemnations across Pakistan, with officials expressing shock and disappointment.
Former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for sincere dialogue, while others termed the incident unacceptable.
I am shocked at the Iranian breach of Pakistani sovereignty. This missile attack is against spirit of our friendship and principles of good neighbourliness, especially as it undermines the historic relationship between our two countries. Sincere dialogue and meaningful…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) January 17, 2024
Caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai also noted the undermining of neighborly relations and called for coordinated action against terrorism.
Conclusion: The airspace violation has led to heightened tensions between Pakistan and Iran. The recall of the ambassador and suspension of high-level visits reflect Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty. The incident underscores the challenges in the region and the imperative for diplomatic solutions to ensure peace and stability.
WHAT IS IRAN THINKING?
Iran conducted a series of attacks in Pakistan, targeting alleged bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl in Panjgur, Balochistan. The Iranian state media reported the assault, claiming the successful demolition of two key strongholds of Jaish al-Adl.
This move prompted swift condemnation from Pakistan, labeling it as an unprovoked violation of its airspace. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong disapproval, emphasizing the potential serious consequences of the attack. While the exact location of the strikes was not specified, the region of Kouh-Sabz in Balochistan was highlighted as the focal point.
Local authorities reported a missile hitting a mosque, causing partial damage and injuries. Pakistan summoned the Iranian charge d’affaires, lodging a strong protest and condemning the incident as an illegal act. The escalation follows Iran’s missile strikes in Iraq and Syria a day earlier, further intensifying tensions in the region. The situation is evolving, with both countries engaged in diplomatic exchanges amid concerns over sovereignty and the impact on the local population.
🔊: PR NO. 1️⃣5️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣
Pakistan’s Strong Condemnation of the Unprovoked Violation of its Air Space
🔗⬇️https://t.co/TAWRqC7qMy pic.twitter.com/oqi3tvAOso
— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) January 16, 2024
