The Chhattisgarh

Tag: Balochistan

  • Explained: Pakistan-Iran Border Tensions And Story Of Balochistan | world news

    NEW DELHI: In a recent escalation of tensions between Iran and Pakistan, both countries have conducted air attacks on armed groups operating near their shared volatile border. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran targeted an armed group in Panjgur town in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, leading to a swift response from Pakistan, which bombed hideouts of armed groups in Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province.

    Geopolitical Significance Of Balochistan

    Balochistan, a region of significant geopolitical importance, is divided among three countries – Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. Pakistan’s portion is known as Balochistan province, while in Afghanistan, it includes Helmand-Kandahar and Nimruz. In Iran, it is referred to as Sistan-Balochistan.

    Historical Context

    Balochistan, originally divided into princely states like Kalat, Lasbela, Makran, and Kharan, faced challenges during the British colonial era. In 1947, the states had the option to join either India or Pakistan, and eventually, Balochistan became a part of Pakistan, emerging as its largest province.

    The Baloch Perspective: Unrest And Armed Resistance

    The Baloch people have a long-standing sentiment of nationalism, challenging the Pakistani government for autonomy. While they aspire for independence, their struggle has not gained enough strength to achieve it. The armed resistance is often labeled as terrorism by both Pakistan and Iran, with recent missile attacks by Iran targeting the Baloch militant group Jaish al-Adl.

    Strategic Importance Of Balochistan For Pakistan

    Economic and Geopolitical Hub: Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province, contributing significantly to the country’s gas production (40%). It also serves as a critical checkpoint for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Despite its strategic importance, the region has witnessed a long-standing struggle for autonomy, with the Baloch feeling marginalised.

    Understanding Baloch Militancy

    Roots of Militancy: Balochistan has become a hotspot for militancy, with groups like Jaish al-Adl involved in armed resistance against what they perceive as oppressive governance. The historical grievances and economic disparities have fueled the Baloch insurgency, leading to clashes between Pakistani forces and militant groups.

    Cross-Border Dynamics

    The complex geopolitical dynamics have further intensified the situation. The border regions, including Gwadar Port in Balochistan and Iran’s Chabahar Port, are considered sister ports, jointly developed by India and Iran as a countermeasure to Gwadar.

    A Shared Challenge

    The recent airstrikes highlight the shared challenge of the Baloch insurgency faced by both Iran and Pakistan. As the region remains volatile, addressing the root causes of unrest and fostering dialogue is crucial for long-term stability. The geopolitical significance of Balochistan continues to shape the dynamics between these neighboring nations.

  • What Is Jaish al-Adl, The Sunni Extremist Group In Pakistan Attacked By Iran | world news

    TEHRAN: Jaish al-Adl, the shadowy Sunni extremist group operating on the Iran-Pakistan border, continues to cast a shadow over the region. Here’s an in-depth exploration of its roots, activities, and the geopolitical dynamics at play.

    Jundallah’s Genesis

    Jaish al-Adl, translating to the Army of Justice in Arabic, is considered the successor to Jundallah or Soldiers of God. The latter instigated a violent rebellion against the Islamic republic in 2000, leading to a decade-long insurgency in the restive southeast.

    The tide turned in 2010 when Iran executed Jundallah’s leader, Abdolmalek Rigi. His capture, involving a dramatic interception of a flight from Dubai to Kyrgyzstan, marked a significant blow to the insurgent group.

    Jaish al-Adl’s Formation

    Founded in 2012 by militant Salahuddin Farooqui, a vocal opponent of Iran’s support for Bashar al-Assad in Syria, Jaish al-Adl operates from bases in Sistan-Baluchestan and Pakistan. The group garners support from ethnic Baluch tribes, particularly in a region marked by the dissatisfaction of minority Sunni Muslims facing discrimination in Shiite-dominated Iran.

    Bombings, Ambushes, And Attacks On Iran

    Jaish al-Adl has claimed responsibility for numerous bombings, ambushes, and attacks on Iranian security forces, coupled with abductions. Iran labels the organization Jaish al-Zolm, denoting the Army of Injustice in Arabic, accusing it of receiving support from the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

    In October 2013, Jaish al-Adl orchestrated an ambush that resulted in the death of 14 Iranian guards near the Pakistan border. The group justified its actions as a response to the Revolutionary Guards’ involvement in Syria. Iran retaliated with executions and clashes near the frontier town of Mirjaveh.

    In February 2014, the abduction of five Iranian soldiers heightened tensions between Iran and Pakistan, prompting Tehran to contemplate a cross-border raid.

    Jaish al-Adl’s Leadership

    Jaish al-Adl, an ethnic Baloch Sunni group emerging in 2012, is viewed as an offshoot of the designated terrorist organization Jundullah. The group opposes the Shia Iranian government’s support for Bashar al-Assad. Key leaders include Salahuddin Farooqui and Mullah Omar, who commands the group’s camp in Balochistan, Pakistan. Abdul Salam Rigi, a cousin of Jundullah chief Abdolmalek Rigi, plays a significant role within Jaish al-Adl.

    This intricate web of history, violence, and geopolitical tensions surrounding Jaish al-Adl underscores the complexity of the situation on the Iran-Pakistan border.