Border security forces of Pakistan and Iran conduct joint operation amid conflicting claims

Islamabad: Border security forces of Iran and Pakistan conducted a joint operation along the Pak-Afghan border in Sistan and Baluchestan province, aimed at targetting “Afghan and Tajik militants.” The Iranian authorities maintain that the joint military operation conducted in Rasik, Chabahar and Parwad areas resulted in the killing of at least 18 Afghan-Tajik suicide bombers.

“The militants entered into Iran from Pakistan disguised as oil tanker owners,” said Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

On the other hand, certain reports suggested that the killed militants could be smugglers. The Khorasan Diary, a Pakistan-based think tank keeping a close eye on militancy in the region and along the borders of Pakistan, stated that the joint operation by Pakistan and Iran was not against militants, but smugglers.

“Initial reports suggest a joint operation between Pakistan and Iranian border forces against smugglers on the border in Baluchestan,” maintained the platform. The fresh tension on the Pak-Iran border is happening only a few days after the Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi concluded his Islamabad visit.

During the visit, both sides agreed to increase border security cooperation to tackle the issue of cross border infiltration of militants and smugglers.

Both, Pakistani Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and his Iranian counterpart, highlighted the urgent need to address the serious issue. “We agree that terrorism is a common challenge for both Pakistan and Iran. We will cooperate in addressing these threats, especially at the border,” Dar had stated during a joint presser held in Islamabad.  (IANS)

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