(Written by: Abdul Basit Alvi)
The historical, cultural, and geopolitical ties between Pakistan and Iran have deep roots spanning centuries. Situated in South Asia and the Middle East respectively, both nations share commonalities in language, religion, and historical influences. The history of Pak-Iran relations has witnessed periods of collaboration, cooperation, and occasional challenges, shaping the dynamic partnership between these two neighboring countries.
The historical ties between the populations inhabiting the regions that now make up Pakistan and Iran can be traced back to ancient times. Both areas boast a rich history of trade, cultural exchanges, and shared influences from empires like the Persian Achaemenids and the Indus Valley Civilization. The Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes, facilitated extensive interaction between the people of these two regions, fostering cultural and economic ties. The advent of Islam in the 7th century brought a new dimension to the region through Arab conquests. The spread of Islam played a crucial role in connecting the people of present-day Pakistan and Iran under a common religious identity. Subsequent Islamic empires, including the Abbasids and the Umayyads, further solidified these religious and cultural bonds.
During the Mughal era in the Indian subcontinent (16th to 19th centuries), the Mughal Empire and the Safavid Empire in Iran maintained diplomatic and trade relations. The Mughals, originating from Central Asian Turkic roots, engaged in cultural and artistic exchanges with the Safavids, contributing to the development of a syncretic Indo-Persian culture. Nevertheless, occasional tensions arose due to regional rivalries. The modern era witnessed the establishment of Pakistan and Iran as sovereign nations in 1947 and 1979, respectively. Bilateral relations between the two nations have experienced periods of cooperation and challenges. Both countries, sharing commonalities as Muslim-majority nations with a strong commitment to their cultural heritage, collaborated in the late 20th century on various strategic fronts.
Pakistan and Iran played key roles in the creation of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 1985, a regional economic forum aimed at fostering economic development and integration. Additionally, the two nations cooperated on energy projects, such as the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, and engaged in joint efforts to enhance regional stability. Despite the historical and cultural ties, Pak-Iran relations have faced challenges over the years. Issues such as border security concerns, sectarian tensions, and external pressures have at times strained the relationship. However, both nations have consistently expressed their commitment to resolving disputes through diplomatic channels and strengthening cooperation.
In a recent incident, Iran attacked Pakistan, constituting an unprovoked airspace violation that is deemed a heinous assault on Pakistan’s sovereignty and integrity. This violation resulted in the tragic loss of two innocent children’s lives and injuries to three girls, with potential serious consequences. This incident contradicts Iran’s claim that the attack targeted a terrorist organization. The responsibility for the attack is squarely placed on the Iranian government, IRGC, and Iranian intelligence. Despite the existence of multiple communication channels between the two countries, the operation violated international law and breached Pakistan’s airspace, constituting a clear violation of sovereignty. A fabricated press release from an organization named Jaish-ul-Adl was issued to justify the incident. Iran realized its error upon witnessing Pakistan’s reaction.
Jaish-ul-Adl, purportedly run by the IRGC, attempted to alleviate the situation by falsely claiming that the rockets crossed the border into Pakistan by mistake. In reality, the target was Jaish al-Adl’s own camps in Sistan, inside Iran. This situation underscores that the explanations provided by Jaish-ul-Adl are manipulated by the IRGC and Iranian intelligence.
Pakistan is deeply saddened by Iran’s actions, considering that terrorist organizations like BLA and BLF have campuses in Iran, and Kulobushan Yadav had been operating from there. It is a significant mistake on Iran’s part to assume that Pakistan will overlook this incident. In response, the entire nation of Pakistan demanded a strong and similar response from the state. Pakistan has reserved the right to provide any kind of response. The Foreign Office summoned the Iranian High Commissioner, recording a robust protest. Pakistan also recalled its ambassador from Iran and expelled the Iranian Ambassador from Pakistan. The world has expressed deep concern over this aggression and condemned the incident.
It’s important to highlight that incidents of infiltration and terrorism are occurring within Iranian borders. In January 2023, four security personnel lost their lives during a terrorist activity on the Iranian side, outside the border in Panjgur district. Additionally, in April 2023, terrorists attacked Pakistani forces in Kech on the Iranian side. Notably, Iran’s security agencies are not in alignment, leading to significant diplomatic challenges for the Iranian government.
During these actions, certain political elements exploited social media in a reprehensible manner for their political agenda, making unfounded attempts to defame the Pakistani forces. Some political groups within Pakistan also engaged in defamatory activities against the country. It is crucial to emphasize that Pakistan never adopt a stance similar to that of Iraq and Syria. Instead, it takes every necessary step to ensure its national security and integrity, reflecting the sentiments of the Pakistani nation. While Pakistan values the principle of co-existence with its neighbors, it remains vigilant regarding its national security requirements.
A day after Iran acknowledged conducting a missile and drone attack in the Pakistani province of Balochistan, Islamabad responded by launching airstrikes on militant targets within Iranian territory, according to sources in Pakistan. The airstrikes took place in response to Iran’s deadly missile and drone strike in Balochistan, prompting Pakistan to assert its right to retaliate against what it termed an “illegal act.” In response to the attack on Balochistan, Pakistan initiated Operation Deadly Sarmchar a day after Iran admitted to the assault.
According to ISPR, in early hours of 18 January 2024, Pakistan carried out effective strikes against hideouts inside Iran used by terrorists responsible for recent attacks in Pakistan. The precision strikes were carried out using killer drones, rockets, loitering munitions and stand-off weapons. Maximum care was taken to avoid collateral damage. Hideouts used by terrorist organisations namely Balochistan Liberation Army and Balochistan Liberation Front were successfully struck in an intelligence based operation, code name ‘Marg Bar Sarmachar’. The targeted hideouts were being used by notorious terrorists including Dosta alias Chairman, Bajjar alias Soghat, Sahil alias Shafaq, Asghar alias Basham and Wazir alias Wazi, amongst others. Pakistan Armed Forces remain in a perpetual state of readiness to ensure safety of Pakistan citizens against acts of terrorism. Our resolve to ensure that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan is respected and safeguarded against any misadventure, remains unwavering. We reaffirm our determination to defeat all enemies of Pakistan with the support of the people of Pakistan. Going forward, dialogue and cooperation is deemed prudent in resolving bilateral issues between the two neighbouring brotherly countries.
As per the Foreign Office spokesperson, Pakistan conducted targeted operations in the Sistan province of Iran, focusing on specific terrorist shelters, resulting in the elimination of numerous terrorists. The spokesperson added that these terrorists had been residing in areas devoid of the Iranian government’s control.
It is emphasized that Pakistan, situated in a complex geopolitical landscape, has consistently invested in robust defense capabilities to ensure its security and contribute to regional stability. The nation possesses the capacity to respond effectively to any threat or attack, with defense capabilities evolving over the years, encompassing various strategic elements, including conventional military strength and nuclear deterrence.
Pakistan’s well-equipped and professional military branches, namely the Army, Navy, and Air Force, continually upgrade their equipment, training, and capabilities to meet evolving security challenges. The military’s commitment to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity is evident in its preparedness and operational effectiveness. The nation’s strategic location at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East enhances its defense capabilities, allowing it to play a pivotal role in regional security and contribute to international counterterrorism efforts.
Pakistan’s demonstrated commitment to combating terrorism is evident in comprehensive counterterrorism operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, which have successfully targeted and dismantled terrorist networks, contributing to both national security and regional stability. The nation possesses a credible nuclear deterrent, serving as a crucial component of its defense strategy to deter potential aggression and maintain regional stability.
The Pakistan Air Force plays a pivotal role in defending the nation’s airspace, utilizing modern fighter aircraft and air defense systems. The development of indigenous capabilities, such as the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, underscores Pakistan’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production. The Pakistan Navy, responsible for securing sea routes and contributing to maritime security, reflects the nation’s dedication to safeguarding its maritime interests.
Acknowledging the evolving nature of modern threats, Pakistan has invested in cybersecurity and information warfare capabilities to secure its digital infrastructure and counter cyberattacks. In addition to securing its borders, Pakistan actively participates in international peacekeeping missions, contributing to United Nations efforts and showcasing its commitment to global peace and security.
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Readers, Pakistan emphasizes its commitment to peace and non-interference in the internal matters of other countries. The nation actively works to eliminate terrorists within its borders and ensures that its soil is not used for terrorism activities elsewhere. Pakistan’s initiatives against terrorism and its peaceful stance are well-documented. While possessing the capability to respond to aggression, Pakistan strives for peace, demonstrating maturity and responsibility in its responses. The mature approach from the Pakistani Government and Pak Army aims to reduce the likelihood of further casualties and confrontation. Despite the recent incident with Iran, the belief remains strong that issues will be resolved through dialogue, reinforcing the commitment of both countries to work together for prosperity, development, and peace.
