Overview

• Iran and Pakistan have exchanged airstrikes targeting insurgent groups in each other's territories, marking a significant escalation in their fraught relations.
• The strikes were aimed at separatist groups fighting for the independence of Balochistan, a region spanning both countries and parts of Afghanistan.
• Balochistan is rich in natural resources but its population is among the poorest in Iran and Pakistan, and the region has been a hotbed of insurgent activity for decades.
• Both Iran and Pakistan have accused each other of leniency towards these insurgent groups, leading to the recent cross-border strikes.
• Despite the escalation, both countries have stated they do not want further conflict, with Pakistan's Foreign Ministry emphasizing its respect for the Iranian people and its desire for dialogue.