Pakistan-Iran FMs agree to ease tension over border issues

F.P. Report

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Jalil Abbas Jilani, had a telephone conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir Abdullahian, on Friday, according to the Foreign Office Spokesperson.

The two ministers discussed the recent developments in the region and the bilateral relations between the two countries.

Jilani briefed Abdullahian on Pakistan’s position and reiterated that the defence of national security and sovereignty was the most important for Pakistan.

He said that the red lines regarding Pakistan’s security were clear and that Pakistan would not allow any violation of its territorial integrity. He also expressed Pakistan’s desire to resolve the issues through dialogue and peaceful means.

Both sides agreed to reduce the recent tension and to enhance cooperation and coordination between the two countries.

Pakistan and Iran traded air strikes on militant targets this week.

The rare military actions in the porous border region of Baluchistan — shared between the two countries — have further stoked regional tensions already enflamed by the Israel-Hamas war.

Iran carried out a missile and drone attack on what it called “terrorist” targets in Pakistan on Tuesday night, with Pakistan in turn striking militant targets inside Iran on Thursday.

Pakistan has recalled its ambassador from Tehran and said Iran’s envoy — on a visit home — is blocked from returning to Islamabad.

The United Nations and the United States have appealed for restraint, while China has offered to mediate.

Tehran and Islamabad have both said they hit their own domestic militants sheltering on foreign territory.

A collective death toll of 11 — mostly women and children — was reported from both sides of the border that bisects an arid region where militant movements have simmered for decades.