Pakistan hits militant targets in Iran day after deadly strike in Balochistan: Sources

Following Iran’s deadly missile and drone strike in Balochistan, Pakistan has reportedly launched air raids on militant targets within Iranian territory, multiple Pakistani sources told India Today TV.

The strikes occurred a day after Iran’s admitted assault in the province of Balochistan, prompting Islamabad to assert its right to respond to what it termed an “illegal act.”

Pakistan on Wednesday condemned Iran for carrying out a missile and drone strike on its territory, which resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to three others in Balochistan.

The Pakistani government described the attack as an “unprovoked violation” of its sovereignty and airspace, asserting that it contravenes international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The Iranian operation, which took place on Tuesday, was acknowledged by Tehran’s foreign minister, who claimed that the strikes were aimed at Jaish al-Adl, a group Iran considers a terrorist organisation. Jaish ul-Adl, or the “Army of Justice,” is a Sunni militant group founded in 2012, which largely operates across the border in Pakistan.

Islamabad took strong diplomatic measures in response, including the recall of its ambassador to Iran and the barring of the Iranian ambassador from returning to Pakistan.

The incident in Balochistan occurred amidst a backdrop of Iranian military actions in the region, with prior strikes targeting locations in Iraq and Syria. Pakistan had warned of “serious consequences” following the airstrike.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mumtaz Baloch, expressed grave concern over the breach of international norms, and claimed that the attack happened despite multiple established communication channels between the two nations.

The development comes at a time when both nations have faced accusations of harbouring militant groups that launch cross-border attacks. The shared border, stretching approximately 900 km, has long been a source of security concerns for both Islamabad and Tehran.

The recent strike near the village of Sabz Koh, close to the Iranian border, has now brought these tensions to the forefront of Iran and Pakistan’s bilateral relations.

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