Iran Pakistan conflict: What did FM Abdollahian say in Islamabad? Watch on

Iran Pakistan conflict: Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, arrived in Islamabad for discussions on Monday, as both countries aimed to defuse tensions following recent deadly cross-border attacks that strained diplomatic ties.

Pictures and footage shared by Pakistan's foreign ministry depicted Amir-Abdollahian's arrival in Islamabad late Sunday. His agenda included discussions with his Pakistani counterpart, Jalil Abbas Jilani, and a meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar.

🇮🇷🤝🇵🇰 After both Pakistan and Iran striking each other with rockers

Iranian Foreign Minister Amir Abdullahian arrived in Islamabad, to held discussion with his Pakistani counter part pic.twitter.com/8PB8vktNmI

— OsintTV 📺 (@OsintTV) January 29, 2024

Iran Pakistan conflict: Escalation of cross-border confrontations

On January 18, Pakistan conducted airstrikes targeting what it termed "militant targets" within Iranian territory. This action came in response to similar strikes by Iran on Pakistani soil just two days earlier.

The exchange of strikes occurred in Baluchistan, a region straddling the border between the two nations. The volatile area has witnessed heightened tensions aggravated by the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

🔴LIVE: Joint Press Stakeout between the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Iran https://t.co/NCvDjyYCef

— Spokesperson 🇵🇰 MoFA (@ForeignOfficePk) January 29, 2024

Iran Pakistan conflict: Unrest in Sistan-Baluchistan province

In a separate incident, gunmen in Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province killed nine individuals, identified by Pakistan's ambassador as Pakistani nationals. The province, predominantly Sunni Muslim in a Shiite-majority Iran, has grappled with unrest involving cross-border smuggling operations, Baluch minority rebels, and extremist elements.

Iran Pakistan conflict: Diplomatic resolutions and de-escalation efforts

Pakistan responded strongly to Iran's initial strikes, resulting in the recall of ambassadors and the suspension of diplomatic missions. However, both nations have since announced measures to de-escalate tensions, paving the way for the reinstatement of diplomatic envoys to their respective posts.

The visits and discussions between Iranian and Pakistani officials mark a significant step towards restoring stability and normalizing relations along the border.