Attack in Iran

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the Iranian government to swiftly apprehend those responsible for the brutal killing of eight Pakistanis near the Pak-Iran border in Sistan, and to ensure they are given exemplary punishment. The victims – Pakistani nationals working as car mechanics – were shot dead by gunmen on Saturday night in Iran’s restive Sistan and Baluchestan province. The attack occurred at a workshop located in the Mehrestan district, near the Afghanistan border. Expressing deep concern over the incident, Prime Minister Shehbaz has condemned it as a heinous act of terrorism and called on Iranian authorities to investigate and disclose the motives behind the attack. The Iranian embassy in Islamabad has also strongly denounced the assault, describing it as inhumane and cowardly, and declared it completely unacceptable. The embassy also emphasised that terrorism remains a persistent and shared threat to the entire region. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office has requested Iran’s full cooperation in investigating the inhumane attack and Pakistan’s ambassador to Iran has confirmed that Pakistani authorities are in contact with their Iranian counterparts to ensure a swift investigation.

This incident is deeply troubling for a number of reasons. It is, without question, an act of terrorism. While no group has yet claimed responsibility, some observers believe that, given the proximity to the Afghan border, the attackers may be terrorists with safe havens in Afghanistan who continue to launch cross-border assaults on Pakistan. Experts suggest that the perpetrators could be affiliated with the TTP or the BLA – though this remains speculative and requires concrete evidence. What is clear is that the attack deliberately targeted Pakistani nationals on Iranian soil. The motive could be to disrupt the longstanding relationship between the two neighbouring countries. Alternatively, the goal might have been to send a message that Pakistanis are not safe from terrorist threats even beyond their borders. It is also possible that both objectives were at play, manipulated by forces hostile to Pakistan.

However, Pakistan and Iran’s relationship is far too valuable to be shaken by such incidents. Rooted in shared history, cultural ties and strategic interests, this relationship demands mature handling and resilience in the face of provocation. That is precisely why a solid investigation, firm resolve and calm diplomacy are essential in addressing this tragic event and ensuring it does not derail bilateral cooperation. It is important to note that Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi visited Pakistan just a month before his tragic death in a helicopter crash. His visit marked the first by any head of state following Pakistan’s general elections and was seen as significant, especially in the context of regional and global developments. The trip was viewed as a diplomatic success, reflecting the deep-rooted ties between the two nations – not only because they share a border, but also due to the presence of a vibrant Shia population in Pakistan. Observers have consistently emphasised the importance of Pakistan prioritising economic and strategic ties with its neighbours. Mutual cooperation remains essential, particularly in today’s complex geopolitical landscape. In this context, it is imperative that Pakistan and Iran continue to strengthen their bilateral relationship. Regarding this cowardly act, Iran has expressed willingness to cooperate, and it must now ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice. Terrorism targeting Pakistanis anywhere in the world is unacceptable.