The Viyug

By Kondaraju Sandeep Royal

States are the primary actors in international relations, driven by self-interest and the pursuit of power. In this context, the Iran-Pakistan conflict can be understood as a struggle for influence and security along their shared border. The volatile region of Balochistan province is being heightened by the recent airstrikes between Iran and Pakistan, posing concerns about potential escalation of tensions. The ongoing conflict is influenced by power dynamics and national interests, while China’s Global Security Initiative is potentially likely to play a role in mediating the conflict and promoting regional stability.

Rising Tensions between Iran and Pakistan

The ongoing airstrikes between Iran and Pakistan along their shared border in Balochistan province have raised regional stability concerns. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted Pakistan’s Jaish al-Adl also known as Jaish al-Dhulm, a Baloch and Sunni group in Pakistan, citing alleged terrorist activities and attacks on Iranian outposts and security forces in Rask. Pakistan responded with air attacks on Baloch separatist groups in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, resulting in casualties on both sides. Pakistan is also targeting the Balochistan Liberation Front and Balochistan Liberation Army, armed separatist groups within its territory.

Jaish al-Adl and the Fuelling of Conflict

The presence of non-state actors like Jaish al-Adl in the equation significantly complicates the conflict. The group’s history, emerging from Jundallah in 2012 and allegedly having negative and positive ties with external entities, such as the US and Israel, contributes to the regional tensions. These groups operate in the shadows, exploiting porous borders and local grievances to launch attacks across the Iran-Pakistan frontier.

Their actions serve as convenient cause of action for both sides, enabling them to portray themselves as victims and justify retaliatory strikes. Jaish al-Adl’s motives are complex, driven by a mix of factors like ethnic separatism, religious extremism, and financial gain. Their presence further complicates the power dynamics, as both Iran and Pakistan struggle to contain their activities and prevent them from becoming pawns in a larger geopolitical game.

Tehran’s Security Concerns

Iran views the presence of the Baloch separatist group Jaish al-Adl on Pakistani soil as a threat to its national security. Tehran’s primary motivation is deterring cross-border attacks by Baloch separatist groups like Jaish al-Adl, which it views as Iranian proxies. The strikes also serve as a message to regional rivals like Israel and the United States, showcasing Iran’s military capabilities and willingness to use them.

Islamabad’s Balancing Act