QUETTA: Iranian forces in Mashkel killed three Pakistanis and injured four others. They also abducted two Pakistani nationals were reportedly abducted by the Iranian forces and taken across the border.
The Mashkel Additional Deputy Commissioner confirmed the incident occurred in the Pak-Iran border area of Kala Grandi, a region known for its strategic significance as it straddles the border between Iran and Pakistan.
Mashkel, situated in Washuk District, Balochistan, Pakistan, serves as the backdrop for this tragic event. With a population of approximately 70,000, Mashkhel is recognized for its date trees and desert landscape.
This recent escalation follows a prior standoff between the military forces of Iran and Pakistan in January. Pakistan strongly condemned Iran’s violation of its airspace and subsequent strike on Pakistani territory, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives. Despite existing channels of communication between the two nations, such unilateral actions undermine bilateral trust and cooperation.
Pakistan has made its stance clear, emphasizing that terrorism is a shared threat that necessitates coordinated efforts. Any breach of sovereignty, as demonstrated by Iran’s actions, is deemed unacceptable and carries grave consequences. Diplomatic protests have been lodged, conveying Pakistan’s condemnation of such violations and warning of the repercussions.
This unfortunate incident underscores the fragility of regional relations and the imperative for respectful engagement between neighboring nations.