Islamabad, Pakistan: Tensions between Pakistan and Iran have escalated following retaliatory airstrikes launched by Pakistan on Thursday. The strikes, targeting alleged militant hideouts in Iran, killed at least nine people and stoked further animosity between the neighboring nations.
This tit-for-tat escalation comes after Iran’s attack on Pakistani soil on Tuesday, which claimed the lives of two children. Both countries accuse each other of harboring separatist militant groups within their borders, fueling the conflict.
The airstrikes jeopardize diplomatic relations between the two nations, already strained by existing suspicions and internal political pressures. Additionally, the attacks occur amidst a volatile Middle East, with Israel’s conflict with Hamas and Iran’s recent airstrikes in Iraq and Syria.
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry defended its actions, claiming they were “highly coordinated and specifically targeted” based on credible intelligence of potential terrorist attacks. They emphasized their commitment to national security against all threats.
The military confirmed using drones, rockets, and long-range standoff weapons, suggesting the fighter jets may not have entered Iranian airspace.
The situation remains uncertain, with the potential for further escalation and regional instability. International observers are closely monitoring the situation and urging both nations to engage in dialogue and de-escalation efforts.
