Strongly condemning Iran's unprovoked infringement on Pakistan's airspace, major political parties voiced their concerns on Wednesday, highlighting the worrisome deterioration in relations with Iran following similar tensions with India and Afghanistan. This situation, they argued, sheds light on the perceived failure of the country's foreign and defense policies. The border town of Panjgur in Balochistan province witnessed Iranian missiles and drones targeting two bases of the Balochi militant group Jaish al Adl on Tuesday.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), led by imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, denounced Iran's actions as irresponsible and reprehensible, warning that it could undermine the much-needed unity among the Muslim Ummah during a crucial time. PTI contended that Iran's unprovoked violation of Pakistan's sovereignty aimed to disrupt the inevitable harmony and unity among the ummah.
Expressing deep concern, PTI stated, "The serious deterioration of relations with Iran, following India and Afghanistan, is very concerning and worrisome, highlighting our failed foreign and defense policies." The party cast doubt on claims made by Iran's close allies, including Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, regarding the strike inside Pakistan. PTI drew parallels with the events of February 2019 when India attempted to violate Pakistan's land and airspace, commending the then-elected Prime Minister Imran Khan for providing strong political leadership and a prompt response.
Bilawal Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party (PPP) called for a swift government response to Iran's actions. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman labeled the attack as unacceptable and condemnable, citing the tragic loss of two children. She emphasized Pakistan's historical restraint on the Pak-Iran border, seeking collective responses to the transnational challenge of terrorism as strategic maturity, not kinetic weakness.
Rehman cautioned that such strikes erode Muslim unity during an existential moment, especially amid the ongoing tragedy in Gaza at the hands of Israel. She urged Tehran to comprehend that violence and conflict align with the goals of non-state actors and terrorists. While emphasizing Pakistan's reluctance to fuel such conflicts, she warned of necessary responses if better sense does not prevail.
PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif expressed shock at the Iranian breach of Pakistani sovereignty, deeming the missile attack against the spirit of friendship and good neighborliness. He called for sincere dialogue and meaningful cooperation between Pakistan and Iran, emphasizing the need of the hour.
(With Agency Inputs)
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