Islamabad, Pakistan – Tensions escalate between Pakistan and Iran as Pakistan’s air force carries out retaliatory airstrikes targeting alleged militant hideouts in Iran. The airstrikes, which took place early Thursday in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, resulted in the deaths of at least seven individuals. These strikes came in response to Iran’s attack on Pakistani soil on Tuesday, which claimed the lives of two children in Baluchistan province. Both attacks appear to have targeted separate Baluch militant groups that are believed to have safe havens in the other country.
The airstrikes not only pose a threat to diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Iran but also raise concerns about the potential spread of violence in a region already unsettled by Israel’s conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Iran recently conducted airstrikes in Iraq and Syria following a suicide bombing claimed by the Islamic State that killed over 90 people. Iraq has recalled its ambassador from Iran for consultations.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry referred to their attack as a series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes. According to the ministry, the action was taken based on credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities. Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul-Haq-Kakar and Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani are cutting short their international trips to return home.
The Baluch Liberation Army, a separatist group, claimed that the airstrikes targeted and killed its members. The group issued a warning, stating that Pakistan would have to pay a price for its actions and declaring war on the state of Pakistan. However, it remains unclear what form this retaliation will take.
The cross-border attacks highlight the ongoing insurgency in Baluchistan province, which has been a stronghold for Baluch nationalists for over two decades. Suspicion regarding state support or leniency for certain insurgent groups persists, particularly in relation to Jaish al-Adl, a Sunni separatist group targeting Iranian security forces, and the Baluch Liberation Army hiding out in Iran.
The recent developments have strained the relationship between Pakistan and Iran, both of which share a largely lawless border with smugglers and militants freely crossing over. The attacks raise questions about the preparedness of their respective militaries, particularly their radar and air defense systems. Additionally, these tensions have geopolitical implications, as Pakistan’s military relies on foreign-supplied fighter jets, including those from the US, China, and France.
China, a significant partner for both Pakistan and Iran, has urged restraint in the conflict. However, it is unclear whether Chinese mediation has taken place. China’s involvement in the region, including its Belt and Road development in Gwadar port, adds complexity to the situation.
The repercussions of these retaliatory actions and the broader regional implications remain uncertain. As tensions persist, it is crucial for both Pakistan and Iran to find avenues for de-escalation and dialogue to avoid further deterioration of the situation.