Recently, tensions between Iran and Pakistan have escalated as both countries engaged in cross-border strikes near Koh-e-Sabz and Saravan. These strikes were aimed at targeting armed non-state actors, with Pakistan targeting Jaish al-Adl in Iran and Iran targeting the Balochistan Liberation Army and the Balochistan Liberation Front in Pakistan. The situation raises concerns about the potential for further escalation and its implications in the broader context of conflicts involving Iranian proxies in Yemen and Gaza.
The Cross-Border Strikes
On Thursday, Pakistan conducted airstrikes in southeastern Iran near Saravan, followed by a statement claiming that Iran is a “brotherly country.” Similarly, Iran used missiles and drones to strike western Pakistan near Koh-e-Sabz. Both countries accuse each other of harboring armed non-state actors, leading to these tit-for-tat strikes.
Potential for Escalation
The question now is whether these cross-border strikes will escalate further. While both countries have referred to each other as brotherly nations, the underlying tensions and accusations suggest a deeper conflict. It is crucial for diplomatic efforts to be prioritized in order to prevent further escalation and potential spillover into a larger conflict.
Implications in the Broader Context
The recent cross-border strikes between Iran and Pakistan add another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflicts involving Iranian proxies in Yemen and Gaza. Iran has been known to support various armed groups in these regions, and the involvement of Pakistan raises concerns about the potential for a regional proxy war.
In Yemen, Iran supports the Houthi rebels who have been engaged in a protracted conflict with the Yemeni government and a Saudi-led coalition. The Houthi rebels have been launching missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, which has escalated tensions in the region. With Pakistan now involved in cross-border strikes with Iran, the situation in Yemen could become even more volatile.
In Gaza, Iran supports Hamas, a Palestinian militant group that has been engaged in a long-standing conflict with Israel. The involvement of Pakistan in the cross-border strikes adds another dimension to this already complex situation. It raises questions about the potential for increased coordination and support between Iranian proxies in different regions.
Expert Insights
Experts from the Atlantic Council family have provided their insights on this escalating situation. They emphasize the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions between Iran and Pakistan and to address the root causes of the conflicts involving Iranian proxies in Yemen and Gaza.
These experts highlight the importance of regional cooperation and dialogue to prevent further escalation and to find peaceful resolutions. They also stress the need for international engagement and support to facilitate diplomatic efforts and prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
Conclusion
The recent cross-border strikes between Iran and Pakistan near Koh-e-Sabz and Saravan have heightened tensions and raised concerns about the potential for further escalation. These strikes are part of a larger conflict involving Iranian proxies in Yemen and Gaza, adding another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
Diplomatic efforts, regional cooperation, and international engagement are crucial in order to de-escalate tensions, address the root causes of the conflicts, and find peaceful resolutions. It is imperative that all parties involved prioritize dialogue and negotiation to prevent the situation from deteriorating into a larger regional conflict.