In a significant military response, Pakistan conducted early morning air strikes on terrorist hideouts in Iran’s Siestan-o-Balochistan province. This action on Thursday appears to be in retaliation to Tehran’s recent violation of Pakistani airspace.
Escalating Tensions and Military Action
Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) confirmed this unprecedented move in a statement. The statement detailed the precision military strikes aimed at terrorist hideouts in Siestan-o-Baluchistan. These strikes, part of an operation named ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar,’ resulted in the elimination of several terrorists. This action follows a tense series of events, including Pakistan recalling its ambassador from Iran and expelling Tehran’s envoy. These moves were in response to Iranian missile strikes on Pakistani territory, which Iran claimed targeted ‘terrorist bases’ of Jaish-al Adl.
Read: Pakistan Retaliates with Precision Strikes on BLA and BLF Bases Inside Iran
The FO stated that Pakistan had consistently raised concerns with Iran about Pakistani-origin terrorists operating within Iranian territory. Despite sharing evidence, Pakistan noted a lack of action from Iran’s side, leading to the decision to these air strikes.
The FO highlighted that the operation reflects Pakistan’s determination to protect national security. It praised the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and emphasized the operation’s complexity and success. Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its people’s safety and security.
The statement also reiterated Pakistan’s respect for Iran’s sovereignty. However, it maintained that national security is paramount and cannot be compromised. According to a Pakistani intelligence source, the strikes targeted militants from the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) and were carried out by military aircraft.
In conclusion, the FO expressed Pakistan’s respect and affection for Iran and its people. It emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation to tackle challenges like terrorism, committing to finding joint solutions.
