Diplomatic tensions rise as gunmen kill 9 Pakistani workers in Iran

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PAKISTAN, Jan 28: In a shocking incident, unidentified gunmen targeted and killed nine Pakistani workers in the restive southeastern border area of Iran on Saturday, as reported by Pakistani Ambassador Muhammad Mudassir Tipu and Iranian state media. The gruesome attack occurred amid ongoing efforts to mend ties between the two nations after recent tit-for-tat attacks.

Expressing deep shock, Ambassador Tipu stated, “Deeply shocked by the horrifying killing of 9 Pakistanis in Saravan. The embassy will extend full support to bereaved families.” He called upon Iran to provide full cooperation in the matter. Iranian state media confirmed that the police are actively searching for the three gunmen who managed to escape after the shooting.

According to the Baluch rights group Haalvash, the victims were Pakistani laborers residing at an auto repair shop where they worked. The attack left three others wounded. While no individual or group has claimed responsibility, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the incident.

Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch remarked, “It is a horrifying and despicable incident, and we condemn it unequivocally.” Expressing urgency, she added, “We are in touch with Iranian authorities and have underscored the need to immediately investigate the incident and hold to account those involved.”

This tragic event unfolded just ahead of Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian’s planned visit to Pakistan on Monday. Condemning the shootings, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani stated, “Iran and Pakistan won’t allow enemies to damage the brotherly ties between the two countries.”

Last week, both nations exchanged missile strikes aimed at what they claimed were militant targets, leading to the recall of ambassadors. As the ambassadors return to their postings, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi emphasized the need to protect the Iran-Pakistan border for economic exchanges.

The Sistan-Baluchestan region, where the incident occurred, has a history of sporadic clashes between security forces and separatist militants. Additionally, the area is known for opium smuggling from Afghanistan. Fuel smuggling from Iran to Pakistan and Afghanistan has also been a concern, driven by Iran’s low fuel prices. The incident raises questions about regional security and cooperation between Iran and Pakistan in addressing common challenges.

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