Amidst ongoing hostilities, Pakistan launches air strikes on Iranian territory

After Iran’s lethal missile and drone attack in Balochistan, Pakistan has reportedly conducted airstrikes on militant targets within Iranian territory, according to multiple Pakistani sources. These strikes occurred in response to Iran’s acknowledged assault in Balochistan, prompting Islamabad to assert its right to retaliate against what it deemed an illegal act.

On Wednesday, Pakistan condemned Iran for the missile and drone strike on its territory, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to three others in Balochistan. The Pakistani government labeled the attack as an “unprovoked violation” of its sovereignty and airspace, arguing that it violated international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Iran’s foreign minister acknowledged the operation on Tuesday, stating that the strikes targeted Jaish al-Adl, a group Iran considers a terrorist organization. Jaish ul-Adl, or the “Army of Justice,” is a Sunni militant group founded in 2012, primarily operating across the Pakistan border.

In response, Islamabad took diplomatic measures, recalling its ambassador to Iran and barring the Iranian ambassador from returning to Pakistan.

This incident in Balochistan occurred against the backdrop of Iranian military actions in the region, with previous strikes in Iraq and Syria. Pakistan had previously warned of “serious consequences” following the airstrike.

Mumtaz Baloch, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, expressed concern over the breach of international norms, claiming that the attack occurred despite established communication channels between the two nations.

The ongoing conflict comes amid accusations that both nations harbor militant groups launching cross-border attacks. The shared 900 km border has long been a security concern for both Islamabad and Tehran.

China has called on both nations to exercise restraint in handling the conflict. The Chinese Foreign Ministry urged them to “avoid actions that would lead to an escalation of tension and work together to maintain peace and stability in the region.”