Pakistan has launched retaliatory airstrikes inside Iran, targeting alleged Baluch militant hideouts, killing at least nine people, following Tehran’s attack on bases of another group within Pakistani territory, Associated Press reports.
Iran summoned Pakistan’s charge d’affaires, and Pakistan had withdrawn its ambassador earlier. The risk of escalation remains, with Iran planning an annual air defense drill. China has urged restraint, being a crucial partner for both countries.
The targeted groups, Baluch Liberation Army and Baluchistan Liberation Front, are involved in separatist movements, and both countries accuse each other of harboring these militants.
