After last week’s tit-for-tat missile attacks, Pakistan and Iran have moved quickly to de-escalate tensions. On the other hand, Iran accused Pakistan of harboring Sunni terrorist groups like the Jaish al-Adl. More importantly, the Pakistan military, which is now in absolute command of the country, wanted to function as both responsible and tough in protecting the country’s security. Undoubtedly, Iran and Pakistan want to swiftly return to friendly relations and their carefully handled border situations. [i] “ Pakistan, Iran envoys to return by Jan 26: FO”, The News, January 24, 2024, https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1150306-pakistan-iran-envoys-to-return-by-jan-26-fo Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan, Iran announce return of ambassadors Iran FM to visit Pakistan on Jan 29”, Express Tribune, January 22, 2024, https://tribune.com.pk/story/2454052/pakistan-iran-announce-return-of-ambassadors[ii] Kamran Yousaf, “Pakistan, Iran working discreetly to prevent future border crisis,” Express Tribune, January 21,2024, https://tribune.com.pk/story/2453974/pakistan-iran-working-discreetly-to-prevent-future-border-crisis[iii] Three varsities in Islamabad ‘closed for indefinite period amid security concerns’, Ahmed Subhan, January 22, 2024https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1150275-three-varsities-in-islamabad-closed-for-indefinite-period-amid-security-concerns[iv] Ibid

Source: The Express Tribune January 24, 2024 16:00 UTC