In a bid to ease escalating tensions, Pakistan and Iran have reached an agreement to “de-escalate” after engaging in air strikes on militant targets within each other’s territories. The decision to de-escalate was confirmed through a phone call between the foreign ministers of Islamabad and Tehran, where both nations expressed the need for strengthened cooperation on counter-terrorism and other mutual concerns.
The move comes after a period of heightened hostilities marked by deadly air strikes and missile attacks, with both countries claiming to target militant positions. The cabinet led by Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, endorsed a decision to restore full diplomatic relations with Iran, signaling a positive step towards normalizing bilateral ties.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Jalil Abbas Jilani, emphasized the country’s commitment to avoiding further escalation during the cabinet meeting. Jilani conveyed Pakistan’s readiness to collaborate with Iran on various issues based on mutual trust and cooperation. The meeting also involved discussions with military services chiefs as part of a broader national security review in the aftermath of the recent incidents between Iran and Pakistan.
Iran reported that the strikes resulted in the death of nine individuals in a border village on its territory, including four children. In contrast, Pakistan asserted that the Iranian attack within its borders led to the tragic loss of two children. The conflicting casualty reports underscore the complexity of the situation and the need for diplomatic resolution.
During the phone call, Jilani and his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, discussed the importance of closer cooperation on security issues. Amir-Abdollahian emphasized Iran’s concern for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan, highlighting the necessity for joint efforts to neutralize and dismantle terrorist camps in the region.
The diplomatic engagement reflects a collective commitment to de-escalate tensions and pursue cooperation in addressing shared security challenges. As both nations strive to move past recent hostilities, the focus on mutual trust and collaboration signals a positive shift in Pakistan-Iran relations. The decision to restore full diplomatic relations further signifies a willingness to build a foundation for stable and amicable ties between the two neighboring countries.
Sources By Agencies
