India Backs Irans Missile Strike on Pakistan, Cites Self-Defense

India has expressed its understanding of Irans missile strike on terror bases in Pakistan, emphasizing its unwavering stance against terrorism.

On January 17, India responded to Iran's missile strike targeting terror bases in western Pakistan, expressing understanding for actions taken in self-defense while maintaining a firm stance against terrorism.

India's Position on Terrorism

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's unwavering commitment to zero tolerance towards terrorism. He stated, "So far as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising position of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self-defense."

Iran's Missile Strike

Iran launched a series of missile and drone strikes on what it claimed were the bases of a terrorist group in the restive Balochistan province of Pakistan. Two bases of the Sunni Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl were targeted, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to three others.

Pakistan's Reaction

In response to the Iranian strike, Pakistan recalled its ambassador to Iran and suspended all planned high-level bilateral visits. The Pakistani Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Baloch, indicated that the Iranian ambassador to Pakistan may not return to Islamabad for the time being. Pakistan also reserved the right to retaliate against Iran's provocation.

Iran's Justification

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian defended the operation, stating that it targeted Iranian terrorists on Pakistani soil. This comes after India's airstrikes in Balakot, Pakistan, in February 2019, in response to the Pulwama terror attack.

India's response to Iran's missile strike on Pakistan reflects its commitment to combating terrorism while acknowledging the right of countries to defend themselves. The situation highlights the complex regional dynamics and the ongoing challenges in addressing cross-border terrorism.