Iranian Foreign Minister Visits Pakistan
Iranian Foreign Minister Visits Pakistan to Restore Diplomatic Relations. The tensions are exacerbated by the conflict in Gaza. The visit involves “in-depth talks” between Amirabdollahian and his Pakistani counterpart, Jalil Abbas Jilani, according to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The diplomatic discussions aim to de-escalate tensions following recent reciprocal air strikes between Tehran and Islamabad earlier this month.
Reciprocal Air Strikes:
Both Iran and Pakistan claimed recent attacks on terrorists in border regions, resulting in 11 casualties. The incidents occurred amidst heightened tensions in the region due to Israel’s escalated bombardment of Gaza. The increased risk of a full-scale conflict prompted both Islamabad and Tehran to swiftly work towards de-escalation and the restoration of diplomatic relations.
Source of Stability:
The two ministers emphasized the significance of close Pakistan-Iran relations as a crucial factor for regional stability. They expressed a joint commitment to enhance political and security cooperation while highlighting mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both leaders agreed to address the “menace of terrorism” collaboratively, focusing on the mountainous region along their shared border where the recent air strikes took place. Additionally, they pledged concerted efforts to uplift the economic development of the affected regions.
Terrorist Support:
Iranian Foreign Minister Visits Pakistan to Restore Diplomatic Relations highlights that terrorists in border areas receive support from third countries, although he didn’t provide specific details on this claim. Western nations accuse Tehran of backing groups labelled as terrorists. During his visit, Iran’s foreign minister is scheduled to meet with Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. Amirabdollahian’s also announced that Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi plans to visit Pakistan soon, with the exact date yet to be determined.
Tit-for-tat
Iran and Pakistan, historically cautious of armed groups in their border areas, faced heightened tensions due to internal political pressures and the Gaza war’s spill over. On January 17, Iran targeted a hideout in Pakistan’s Balochistan, claiming it housed the anti-Iran armed group Jaish al-Adl. Pakistan reported two children killed, leading to the recall of its ambassador from Tehran.
In retaliation, Pakistan launched an airstrike, alleging it targeted Baloch separatist groups in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan, resulting in at least nine casualties. Concerns rose about a regional escalation of the Gaza war. Promptly, Iran and Pakistan jointly decided to de-escalate tensions, resuming diplomatic links, and reinstating ambassadors. Amirabdollahian’s visit further signifies this effort. During the trip, discussions will include the recent killing of nine Pakistani labourers in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan. The families demand the return of the victims’ bodies, with Pakistan coordinating arrangements with Iran’s assistance.
