by 9 Pakistani Workers Killed in Gun Attack near Iran-Pakistan Border
In a horrifying and despicable attack, nine Pakistani workers were brutally gunned down by unidentified assailants in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province near the border with Pakistan. This comes at a time when both countries have been attempting to ease tensions following a deadly cross-border fire.
According to witnesses, the attack took place in a house in the Sirkan neighborhood of Saravan city. Three Pakistanis were also injured in the indiscriminate gunfire. The victims, hailing from Punjab, specifically from Multan, Muzaffargarh, and Bahawalpur districts, were attacked while they were sleeping. The attackers, who remain unidentified, fled the scene after shooting the foreigners.
The incident has sparked outrage, with no group or individual claiming responsibility for the attack. The Pakistani Foreign Office has condemned the incident and demanded a comprehensive investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Pakistan’s ambassador to Iran, Muddasir Tipu, expressed shock over the killings and called for full cooperation from Iran.
The timing of this attack is particularly significant as it occurred just a day before the Iranian foreign minister’s visit to Islamabad, where discussions on border security and the challenge of militant sanctuaries were expected to take place. This incident adds to the existing tension between the two countries, especially considering recent retaliatory strikes by Pakistan on Baloch insurgent sanctuaries in the same region.
The incident highlights the prevailing security challenges in the area and the complex dynamics of cross-border relations between Iran and Pakistan. President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran emphasized the need to protect borders against any insecurity, describing the two countries as “brothers” with unbreakable relations.
This tragic incident follows rare military action in the border region of Balochistan, which had already heightened regional tensions due to Israel’s war on Gaza. Pakistan and Iran had engaged in strikes on each other’s territory, leading to the recall of ambassadors. However, both countries have now decided to de-escalate and resume diplomatic missions.
The families of the victims have called on the Pakistani government to ensure the prompt repatriation of their loved ones’ bodies. Efforts are underway to facilitate their return to Muzaffargarh. Pakistan remains resolute in its commitment to combat terrorism and seek justice for the victims of this cowardly attack.
In conclusion, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges faced by Pakistan and Iran in the border region. Both countries must work together to ensure the safety of their citizens and strengthen their cooperation in addressing cross-border threats.
