There is a feeling of betrayal in Islamabad regarding the recent Iranian missile strikes in Baluchistan, Pakistan. Historically, Pakistan has consistently supported Iran against global powers, being the sole regional country to oppose and diplomatically lobby against US sanctions on Iran, deeming them as “collective punishment.” Additionally, Pakistan has opposed the invasion of Iran. However, mistrust between the two nations in counter-terrorism efforts has resulted in serious provocations.
Over time, both countries have collaborated on border fencing and establishing the Joint Rapid Reaction Force. Despite these efforts, relations have not significantly improved due to the persistent nature of threats. Baluchistan faces separatist threats on both sides of the border, with differences in the nature of the separatist movement in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchistan, Iran, having both sectarian (Sunni majority) and ethnic (Baloch) grounds, aligning these segments together. This alignment has garnered popular support for Jaish Al Adl on the ground.
