In a significant development, Pakistan and Iran have mutually decided to de-escalate tensions after engaging in deadly air strikes on militant targets within each other’s borders. The decision to ease hostilities emerged following a phone call between the foreign ministers of both countries. The ministers affirmed the importance of strengthening working-level cooperation and close coordination on counter-terrorism and other mutual concerns.
According to a summary issued by Pakistan’s foreign office, the two nations acknowledged the need for collaboration in various aspects, signaling a commitment to foster better diplomatic relations. This comes on the heels of a recent standoff that saw both countries exchanging missile and drone strikes, each claiming to target militant sites. The cabinet of Pakistan, led by the caretaker prime minister, endorsed the move to re-establish full diplomatic relations with Iran.
Pakistan’s foreign minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, expressed a desire to avoid further escalation during a cabinet meeting, emphasizing the importance of a broad national security review in the aftermath of the recent incidents with Iran. Jilani also engaged in a phone call with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, reiterating Pakistan’s readiness to work collaboratively with Iran on all issues based on mutual trust and cooperation. The meeting aimed at addressing the complex security landscape in the region.
The Iranian foreign minister, Amir-Abdollahian, highlighted the shared concern for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan. He stressed the essential nature of cooperation between the two countries to neutralize and eliminate terrorist camps located in Pakistan. Both nations expressed a commitment to closer cooperation on security issues, reflecting a shared interest in maintaining stability in the region.
The recent exchange of air strikes resulted in casualties on both sides, with Iran reporting the death of nine individuals, including four children, in a border village, while Pakistan claimed the loss of two children due to the Iranian attack. The decision to de-escalate tensions and re-establish diplomatic ties underscores the significance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges and fostering stability between Pakistan and Iran.
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