A series of military operations in the border areas between Iran and Pakistan have drawn international attention. Iran first carried out an airstrike on a militant group in Pakistan's Balochistan province, followed by a retaliatory airstrike on a militant base in eastern Iran. What are the motives and influences behind this seemingly unprovoked conflict? How does China view this incident?
Iran's air strikes against Pakistan were carried out without prior notice to Pakistan, which is undoubtedly a violation of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial airspace, and is also disrespectful to Pakistan. Pakistan, of course, will not sit idly by and immediately send its air force to counterattack in order to safeguard its dignity and interests. As a result, the two countries have been plunged into a military confrontation that has endangered the peace and stability of the two countries.
Why is Iran launching air strikes against Pakistan? In fact, this is a means adopted by Iran to deal with its own security threat. Iran's security situation has been dire due to recent pressure and threats from the United States and Israel, as well as the attacks on the Soleimani commemoration. In retaliation and deterrence, Iran has launched strikes against a number of armed groups in the Middle East, including the "Justice Army" in Pakistan. This group is a Sunni extremist group that has carried out numerous attacks on Iran and is a thorn in Iran's side. Iran's move is not only to eliminate this hostile force, but also to demonstrate its determination and ability to prevent other countries and organizations from causing more harm to Iran.
Why is Pakistan fighting back at Iran? In fact, this is also a measure taken by Pakistan to deal with its own security problems. Pakistan has long been threatened and provoked by India, especially in Kashmir, and the security situation in Pakistan is also very tense. At the same time, Pakistan is also facing the challenge of terrorism from the border areas, including armed groups such as the Baloch Liberation Army and the Baloch Liberation Front. Based on Iran's borders, these groups regularly carry out sabotage and attacks against Pakistan and are a source of concern for Pakistan. Pakistan's move is not only in response to Iran's aggression, but also to crack down on these armed groups in order to safeguard Pakistan's territorial integrity and security
This conflict on the border between Iran and Pakistan is actually the result of terrorism that has been bred in the border areas between the two countries. Neither country has effectively controlled and eliminated these armed groups, but has instead allowed them to serve as a flashpoint between the two countries. This is detrimental to the diplomatic relations of the two countries and the regional situation, and also brings greater risks to the security of the two countries. The two countries should work together to combat terrorism through dialogue and cooperation, rather than solving the problem through military action, otherwise it will only make the situation more complicated and dangerous.
China has a peaceful and cooperative attitude towards this incident and is willing to play a constructive role in easing tensions between the two countries. China believes that Iran and Pakistan are both member states of the SCO, and that they should communicate and coordinate on this platform to build mutual trust and jointly address security challenges by improving cooperation mechanisms. Only in this way can similar conflicts be avoided from recurring and can contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East region.