India Acknowledges Iran’s Strikes in Pakistan as Acts of Self-Defense
India Asserts “Zero Tolerance for Terrorism” Amid Iran-Pakistan Missile Strikes
By [Errraand News]
Date: [18/01/2024]
New Delhi, India – In response to the recent missile attack by Iran on Pakistan, India emphasized that the issue concerns only the two nations involved but underscored its “uncompromising zero tolerance towards terrorism.” Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India understands the actions countries may take in self-defense.
“This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self-defense,” remarked Jaiswal during a press conference, addressing media queries.
Iran revealed yesterday that it had targeted two bases of the Sunni Balochi terror group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan, using drones and missiles. The group had previously launched attacks on Iranian security forces near the Pakistan border, resulting in the loss of 11 police officers’ lives during an assault on a police station on December 15.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, clarified, “We only targeted the Iranian terrorist group on the soil of Pakistan. We respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, but we don’t allow national security to be compromised or played with.”
In response to the missile strikes, Pakistan reported the tragic death of two children and condemned the incident as “completely unacceptable,” warning of potential “serious consequences.” Islamabad lodged a strong protest with the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tehran and took diplomatic measures, recalling its ambassador to Iran and suspending planned high-level bilateral visits.
Addressing the situation, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani stressed the need for coordinated efforts to combat terrorism, describing it as a “common threat” to the region. The foreign ministry in Pakistan warned against unilateral actions that could undermine regional peace and stability.
“The attack came a day after Iran’s missile strikes in Iraq and Syria against what it called ‘anti-Iranian terrorist groups’,” the spokesperson added.
The escalating tensions in the region have put neighboring countries on high alert. While India maintains a position of non-interference in the Iran-Pakistan issue, its clear stance on combating terrorism aligns with global efforts to ensure peace and stability.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for diplomatic resolutions to de-escalate tensions and prevent further fallout. The delicate balance in the region demands nuanced diplomacy and collaborative efforts to address the root causes of conflict, fostering lasting peace and security.