New Delhi: India has emphasized the need for regional cooperation in addressing the escalating tensions between Iran and Pakistan, following Iran’s recent missile attack on alleged terrorist bases within Pakistani territory. While asserting that the issue is primarily between the two nations involved, India reiterated its unwavering stance against terrorism and acknowledged the right of countries to take action in self-defense.
Iran announced that it had targeted bases belonging to the Sunni Balochi terror group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan, accusing the group of previous attacks on Iranian security forces. In response to media queries, the Indian foreign ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated, “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.”
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 the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, but we don’t allow national security to be compromised or played with.”
Pakistan condemned the missile strikes, citing the death of two children, and warned of “serious consequences.” Islamabad lodged a strong protest with the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, recalling its ambassador and suspending planned high-level bilateral visits. Pakistan’s foreign minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, highlighted terrorism as a common threat to the region, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to combat it. The foreign ministry cautioned against unilateral actions that could undermine regional peace and stability.
The incident occurred shortly after Iran conducted missile strikes in Iraq and Syria, targeting what it referred to as “anti-Iranian terrorist groups.” As tensions escalate in the region, concerns grow about the potential impact on stability and the imperative for diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.
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