Pakistan and Iran Restore Diplomatic Ties After Exchange of Strikes
By [Errraand News]
Date: [20/01/2024]
In a significant development, Pakistan and Iran have restored diplomatic ties, marking the end of a strained period characterized by drone and missile strikes exchanged between the two nations. The decision to reestablish diplomatic connections was confirmed by the office of Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister, Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar.
The recent escalation began when both countries conducted strikes on militant bases situated within each other’s territories, leading to a reciprocal withdrawal of ambassadors. According to reports, nine people, including four children, lost their lives in a border village on Iranian soil during Thursday’s strikes, while Pakistan reported casualties, including two children, from an Iranian attack on Tuesday.
Following talks between the two nations, the ambassadors are expected to return to their respective capitals, signifying a diplomatic resolution to the recent hostilities. The details of the discussions and agreements reached have not been disclosed, and there has been no immediate comment from Iran on the matter.
Earlier on Friday, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Jilani expressed the country’s willingness to collaborate with Iran on “all issues” during a call with his Iranian counterpart. The foreign ministry of Pakistan stated, “Foreign Minister Jilani expressed Pakistan’s readiness to work with Iran on all issues based on the spirit of mutual trust and cooperation. They also agreed to de-escalate the situation. The return of ambassadors of the two countries to their respective capitals was also discussed.”
The tit-for-tat strikes between Pakistan and Iran occurred amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, where multiple crises are unfolding simultaneously. Israel is engaged in conflict with the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza and facing challenges from Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Additionally, Iran-supported groups in Iraq and Syria are targeting U.S. forces, while the U.S. and UK have conducted strikes against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen.
Pakistan’s foreign ministry defended its actions, stating that the strikes around the Iranian city of Saravan were based on “credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities.” Emphasizing its respect for Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, Pakistan’s army described the strikes as “precision strikes” using drones, rockets, and long-range missiles, targeting the Balochistan Liberation Army and the Balochistan Liberation Front. Both groups have been involved in a prolonged struggle for greater autonomy in Balochistan, a remote region in southwestern Pakistan.