In the wake of a brutal attack that left eight Pakistanis dead in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah condemned the incident, calling it a deliberate move to ignite Pakistan-Iran tensions. The killings have sparked outrage as details remain scarce and no official response has yet come from Pakistan’s federal authorities.
A Despicable Act of Violence
In a statement released by his office on Saturday, CM Shah expressed deep sorrow over the killings. He labeled the attack as “heinous and despicable,” warning that such actions are orchestrated by elements seeking to harm the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Iran.
“This is an attempt by mutual enemies to damage our brotherly ties,” Shah stated. “Those responsible must be identified and brought to justice immediately.”
He urged the Iranian government to launch a swift and transparent investigation, holding the attackers accountable without delay.
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Incident Near Iran-Pakistan Border
Local media in Pakistan reported that the attack occurred early Saturday in Mehrestan district, located near the Iran-Pakistan border. Afghanistan-based Khaama Press was among the first to report that the victims were Pakistani auto mechanics working in a nearby village.
Later, a separatist group known as the Balochistan National Army (BNA) claimed responsibility for the killings.
A History of Violence in the Region
These repeated incidents have raised serious concerns about the safety of Pakistani migrants working in border areas. Thousands of Pakistanis, particularly from underdeveloped regions like Balochistan, routinely cross into Iran for work in low-wage sectors such as construction, agriculture, and auto mechanics.
Separatist Tensions and Diplomatic Strains
Balochistan has long struggled with a low-level insurgency. Separatist groups in the region have accused the Pakistani government of exploiting local resources without sharing benefits with the native population. Islamabad has consistently rejected these claims, pointing to major development projects as evidence of its commitment to Balochistan’s progress.
Diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Iran have historically seen ups and downs. Just last year, both nations exchanged missile and drone strikes after similar attacks on each other’s territory. Although efforts were made afterward to ease tensions, these latest killings risk unraveling recent progress.
Urgency for Diplomatic Engagement
While Pakistan’s foreign ministry and its embassy in Tehran have yet to issue official statements, pressure is mounting for the government to respond. CM Shah’s early and strong condemnation signals growing alarm within the country’s leadership.
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