Pakistan Air Force Strikes Alleged Baloch Separatist Camps in Iran

On Thursday, reports emerged that the Pakistan Air Force conducted airstrikes on suspected Baloch separatist camps situated within Iranian territory. According to sources familiar with the situation, these targeted locations were believed to be hideouts of Baloch militants wanted by Pakistan. A senior intelligence source confirmed the strikes against groups perceived as anti-Pakistan militants within Iran, and later, Pakistan’s foreign ministry verified the operation, codenamed “Marg Bar Sarmachar,” claiming the elimination of terrorists.

This development follows Iranian airstrikes in Pakistan, prompting Islamabad to assert its “right to respond” to what it deemed a “provocative act” by launching strikes on alleged Baloch separatist camps in Iran. Tensions between the two neighbouring nations escalated after Iran asserted the successful targeting of militant elements operating from Pakistani soil. Pakistan, however, rejected these claims, asserting that the Iranian action resulted in civilian casualties rather than a targeted strike against militants.

In response to the Iranian airstrikes, Pakistan’s foreign minister, in a phone call with his Iranian counterpart, emphasised the attack as a “serious breach of sovereignty” and a violation of international law. This led to the recall of Pakistan’s ambassador from Iran and the blocking of Tehran’s envoy from returning to Islamabad.

Iran’s foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, maintained that his country’s armed forces had targeted the “Iranian terrorist group” Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan. He asserted that none of Pakistan’s nationals were intentionally harmed during the Iranian military action.

Meanwhile, addressing media queries on the Iranian airstrikes, India reiterated its unwavering zero-tolerance policy for terrorism. The spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that the matter is strictly between Iran and Pakistan, emphasising India’s understanding of countries taking actions in self-defense.

The cross-border military actions underscore the intricate regional dynamics and the potential for further escalation, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic resolution and international cooperation to prevent further hostilities. The situation calls for careful navigation to avoid a broader conflict and emphasises the importance of fostering dialogue and peaceful solutions in the region.