9 Pakistani Laborers Killed in Iran Border Region; Pakistan Calls for Investigation
Unidentified gunmen killed nine Pakistani laborers Saturday in the Iranian city of Saravan, in Sistan-Baluchestan province, the southeastern area bordering Pakistan. This attack comes as both Iran and Pakistan are striving to mend their strained relations following recent tit-for-tat attacks.
The Pakistani ambassador to Tehran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, expressed shock at the killings in Saravan and assured full support to the victims’ families. He urged Iranian cooperation in resolving the matter. Iranian state media reported that the police are pursuing three suspects who fled after the attack. The Baluch rights group Haalvash identified the victims as Pakistani laborers working at an auto repair shop where they also resided. Additionally, three others were injured in the shooting.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, according to state media. Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch strongly condemned the incident and stated that Pakistan is in close communication with Iranian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and accountability.
The incident precedes a scheduled visit to Pakistan by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Monday. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani also condemned the attack, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations.
The recent incidents occurred amid ongoing security challenges in the Sistan-Baluchestan region, known for clashes between security forces and separatist militants, as well as drug and fuel smuggling.
