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Muslims around the World
Pakistan Strikes Anti-Islamabad Militants in Iran
Yesterday, the Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that they conducted military strikes against anti-Islamabad militants inside Iran. This action came two days after Tehran carried out strikes inside Pakistan. In an effort to prevent further escalation between the two countries, China has offered to mediate.
Pakistan's Military Strikes
The Pakistani Foreign Ministry stated, "This morning, Pakistan carried out a series of precise, highly coordinated military strikes specifically directed against terrorist hideouts in the Iranian province of Sistan and Baluchestan." These strikes targeted the "Balochistan Liberation Army" armed group inside Iran. The action was taken based on reliable intelligence information about imminent terrorist activities.
According to Pakistani sources, the strikes hit six targets within three locations, around 40 to 50 kilometers inside Iranian territory. The operation resulted in the death of several terrorists.
Iran's Response
The Iranian News Agency reported that the Pakistani attack resulted in the death of nine people, including three women and four children who were all Pakistanis. The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the Pakistani Chargé d'Affairs in Tehran to seek clarification regarding the attack. Iranian television quoted an informed source as saying, "We condemn the Pakistani attack, and we demand a quick clarification regarding the incident."
Pakistani Prime Minister's Response
Interim Prime Minister Anwar Haq Kakar will shorten his visit to Davos to participate in the World Economic Forum due to the current developments. The Pakistani Foreign Ministry emphasized that Islamabad fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran. They stated that the goal of the military strikes was to preserve Pakistan's security and national interest, which are extremely important and cannot be compromised.
China Offers Mediation
Amid the tensions between Pakistan and Iran, China has offered to mediate between the two countries. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning expressed hope that both sides can calm down, exercise restraint, and avoid escalating tensions. China is ready to play a constructive role in reducing the escalation if both parties wish to do so.
Background and Previous Attacks
Pakistan had previously warned Iran of "serious consequences" after Tehran announced that it had targeted the headquarters of the "Jaish al-Adl" armed group in Pakistani territory. Iranian strikes inside Pakistan resulted in the destruction of two bases used by the Army of Justice group. The attack led to the death of two innocent children and the injury of three girls.
The Army of Justice group has claimed responsibility for several attacks in southeastern Iran. Both the United States and Iran classify this group as a terrorist organization. Tensions between Pakistan and Iran have existed in the past, with accusations of allowing armed elements to launch attacks from their respective territories. However, government forces rarely intervene on both sides. These recent strikes mark the largest incursion across the country's borders in the past few years.
Source: Agencies
