India calls Iran's strikes on Pakistan "self-defence"
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New Delhi: India commented on Iran's recent strikes on Pakistan, emphasising that the matter primarily concerns the two countries involved, namely Pakistan and Iran.
The foreign ministry noted that India comprehends the "actions that countries take in their self-defence" while maintaining an unwavering commitment to zero tolerance towards terrorism.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self-defence."
The missile strikes targeted two bases of the Balochi militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan.
In response, Pakistan reported the unfortunate death of two children in the missile attacks and issued a warning about the potential "serious consequences" of the incident, deeming it "completely unacceptable."
Iran's recent military operation targeting the Balochi militant group Jaish al-Adl in Pakistan has led to heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
Described as an "Iranian terrorist group" by Iran's foreign minister, the strike prompted Pakistan to recall its ambassador to Iran and block Tehran's envoy from returning. Despite the attack being labelled "illegal" by Pakistan, Iran insists it only targeted Jaish al-Adl members and not Pakistani citizens.
The Balochistan attack follows Iran's strikes on Iraq and Syria earlier in the week.
Iran's foreign minister stated that the recent actions were in response to the involvement of groups like Jaish al-Adl in attacks on Iran. The strike on Pakistan represents a significant escalation in tensions, with both countries accusing each other of harbouring militant groups that carry out border-area attacks.
While Pakistan expressed outrage and initiated diplomatic measures, China urged restraint from both nations to avoid escalating tension.
The incident adds to the ongoing regional strife, particularly amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Iran emphasises it does not seek involvement in a broader conflict but aims to demonstrate strength and hold those it deems responsible for recent attacks accountable.
The strike targeted a village in Balochistan, a sparsely populated region near the Iranian border. This area is known for smuggling activities, with residents facing challenges such as deprivation of basic necessities and discrimination. The complex dynamics along the shared border, spanning approximately 900 km, have been a longstanding concern for both Pakistan and Iran.
