Iran-Pakistan Standoff: Why Both Countries In Conflict Now
Iran and its neighbour Pakistan have been engaging in conflict since Iran carried out a missile attack in Pakistan’s Baloch province, saying it struck terror networks in the restive province. The border region is witnessing conflict situation after Pakistan retaliated with military strikes in Iran’s Siestan-Balochistan province, killing nine people.
Iranian missile attack killed two children in Pakistan on Tuesday night, with Iran saying it attacked Jaish al-Adl group terrorist bases in Balochistan province. Iran said it attacked the terror networks in Pakistan in response to the group’s recent attacks on the Iranian city of Rask in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchestan.
Pakistan had called Iran’s attack on its soil “unacceptable” and recalled its ambassador to Iran. Besides, as a tit-for tat, Pakistan today carried out a coordinated military strike in the Sistan-Baluchestan province of Iran.
Pakistan said it was an “intelligence-based operation” against hideouts of armed groups. Pakistan condemned its airspace violation, warning consequences if it conducts such actions. Calling Iran a “brotherly country”, Pakistan said that the action was a “manifestation of Pakistan”s unflinching resolve” to protect its national security against all threats.
Iran has asked for an immediate explanation from Islamabad over its attack on Iran.
The United States condemned Iran”s attack on Pakistan, while China asked Pakistan and Iran to avoid further escalation and keep restraint
Many other countries also responded to the escalation, insisting both countries to exercise restraint.
Pakistan says it targeted the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a group that has been trying to create an independent nation in Pakistan. Pakistan accused the BLF fighters working in the border region of Iran.
The group has been conducting attacks in Iran and Pakistan, becoming a headache to both counties in the border region.
The escalation between the nuclear armed Pakistan and Ian has rose tension in the already volatile region.
