China has urged Pakistan and Iran to exhibit “restraint” following Tehran’s airstrike on Chinese territory, resulting in the tragic death of two children and the injury of three girls.
In a regular briefing on Wednesday, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the importance of both nations exercising restraint, avoiding actions that could escalate tensions, and collaborating to uphold peace and stability. Describing Iran and Pakistan as close neighbors and significant Islamic countries, Ning urged diplomatic resolution.
Pakistan strongly denounced the unprovoked violation of its airspace by Iran, asserting that such infringements on sovereignty are unacceptable and could lead to serious consequences. Despite existing communication channels between the two countries, the Pakistani Foreign Office expressed deep concern over the illegal act and lodged a protest with Iranian officials.
Both Iran and Pakistan maintain close ties with China and are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. While Iran’s state-run Nour News agency claimed the airstrike targeted the headquarters of the militant group Jaish al-Adl, Pakistan’s caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai warned that such violations of sovereignty could strain relations between Tehran and Islamabad.
Achakzai also suggested external forces were attempting to interfere in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, emphasizing that these efforts would not succeed. Formed in 2012, Jaish al-Adl is designated as a terrorist group by Iran and has previously carried out attacks on Iranian soil.
The airstrike occurred in the aftermath of Iran’s missile attacks on “spy headquarters” and “terrorist” targets in Syria, as well as in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region. Despite the gravity of the situation, Iran has not provided an official comment at this time.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
