Pakistan and Iran's top military officials have pledged to enhance collaboration and intelligence exchange to counter militant activity along their shared border. This agreement follows a recent surge in attacks in Pakistan's southwestern Baluchistan province, a region bordering both Afghanistan and Iran.
General Asim Munir, Pakistan's army chief, visited Tehran over the weekend to address the escalating security concerns. The discussions focused on bolstering joint efforts to prevent future attacks by separatist groups operating in the area.
Historically, the relationship between Pakistan and Iran has been complex, often strained by cross-border incidents involving militant groups. These groups, advocating for the independence of Baluchistan, have conducted a prolonged insurgency against the Pakistani government. Adding to the tension, Pakistani anti-Iran militants have also carried out attacks in recent years.
During his visit, General Munir met with his Iranian counterpart, General Mohammad Hossein Bagheri, and President Ebrahim Raisi. Both sides acknowledged terrorism as a mutual threat and committed to working together to dismantle terrorist networks. This includes sharing intelligence and taking decisive action against these groups.
This strengthened partnership comes at a time of heightened tension between Pakistan and Afghanistan's Taliban rulers. Pakistan accuses the Taliban of harboring the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group that has gained strength since the Taliban's return to power in 2021.
