Pakistan has strongly denounced an Iranian airstrike on its territory, condemning it as an "unprovoked violation of airspace" that resulted in the tragic deaths of two children. Iran claimed to have targeted strongholds of the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan's Balochistan province using precision missile and drone strikes. The incident occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Iran's recent missile strikes in Iraq and Syria and Israel's conflict in Gaza posing a risk of broader regional escalation.
Pakistan's Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over the attack, emphasizing the loss of innocent lives and characterizing it as a breach of its sovereignty. Despite existing communication channels between Pakistan and Iran, the ministry highlighted the illegal nature of the airstrike and warned of "serious consequences." In response, Pakistan recalled its ambassador from Iran and suspended high-level visits.
Mumtaz Baloch, a spokesperson for Pakistan's Foreign Ministry, declared the breach as a violation of international law and the UN Charter. She announced the suspension of the return of the Iranian Ambassador from a current visit, underscoring Pakistan's right to respond to the perceived illegal act.
China urged both Iran and Pakistan to exercise restraint and collaborate in maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Jaish al-Adl militant group claimed that Iranian Revolutionary Guards used attack drones and rockets to destroy residences in Koh-e-Sabz, resulting in casualties, including the death of two girls. Balochistan authorities confirmed the deaths and injuries, noting damage to a mosque in the vicinity.
Koh-e-Sabz, known for hosting Jaish-ul-Adl's former second-in-command Mullah Hashim, had witnessed clashes with Iranian forces in 2018. Iran asserted that it only targeted Iranian terrorists on Pakistani soil, emphasizing its respect for Pakistan's sovereignty while safeguarding its national security.
Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, addressed the situation at the World Economic Forum in Davos, stating their commitment to preserving sovereignty but prioritizing national security without compromising on Iranian interests.
