IRAN-PAKISTAN STRAINED RELATIONS: ESCALATING TENSIONS

Why in the News?

Iranian missiles and drones target alleged Jaish al-Adl bases in Pakistan’s Balochistan.
Pakistan strongly condemns the attack as a breach of sovereignty, recalls envoy, and initiates its own cross-border strikes into Iran.

Source : The Hindu

Historical Context:

Pre-1979 Revolution: Both countries were U.S. allies; Iran supported Pakistan during wars with India.
Post-1979: Iran’s revolution strained ties; Pakistan aligned with the U.S., increasing Iranian distrust.
Geopolitical Differences: Iran’s revolution, focus on exporting it, and diverging stances in Afghanistan fueled tensions.
Impact on India: India maintains friendly ties with Iran, collaborating on projects like Chabahar port, while expressing zero tolerance for terrorism.

About Baluchistan

· One of Pakistan’s four provinces.

· Largest in land size, but the least populated.

· Dominated by ethnic Baloch people, spread across Iran, Afghanistan, and primarily in Balochistan.

· Significantly rich in natural gas and oil.

· Holds strategic importance in Pakistan.

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