Unidentified gunmen carried out a brutal attack in the restive southeastern border area of Iran on Saturday, killing at least nine Pakistani citizens, according to both Pakistani Ambassador Muhammad Mudassir Tipu and Iranian state media. This incident occurred amid ongoing efforts by the two nations to mend ties following recent tit-for-tat strikes. Expressing deep shock, Ambassador Tipu stated on the X platform, “Embassy will extend full support to bereaved families,” and called upon Iran to cooperate fully in addressing the matter.
The victims, identified by the Baluch rights group Haalvash as Pakistani laborers residing and working at an auto repair shop in Saravan, Sistan-Baluchestan province, suffered a horrifying attack. Three others were wounded in the assault, and the gunmen managed to escape, triggering a search by Iranian police.
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No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the shootings, and both countries are urging a thorough investigation. Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch condemned the incident unequivocally, emphasizing the need for immediate action against those involved in this heinous crime. The timing of the attack is noteworthy, occurring just before a planned visit to Pakistan by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian.
The Iranian government, through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani, condemned the shootings and emphasized the shared commitment to protecting the brotherly ties between the two nations. Recent tensions, including missile strikes exchanged between Iran and Pakistan, had prompted the recall of ambassadors, who were now returning to their postings.
Addressing the broader context, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi stressed the economic potential of the Iran-Pakistan border while urging its protection against insecurity. The Sistan-Baluchestan region, marked by sporadic clashes with separatist militants and drug-smuggling activities, has been a hotspot for unrest.
The incident follows recent air raids by Pakistan on what it claimed were militant targets in Iran and retaliatory attacks by Iran on Pakistani territory. This tit-for-tat escalation led to strained diplomatic relations, with ambassadors being recalled and missile strikes exchanged. The situation is further complicated by the presence of militant groups, including Jaish al-Adl, a blacklisted organization responsible for deadly attacks in Iran.
In response to the tragic incident, Pakistan is actively engaged with Iranian authorities, seeking a thorough investigation and accountability for the perpetrators. The Consul in Zahedan is en route to the hospital where the injured are being treated, emphasizing the urgency of strong action against those responsible. Despite such cowardly attacks, Pakistan remains resolute in its determination to combat terrorism.
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