Pakistan summons Iranian ambassador to explain threats

Pakistan’s foreign minister summoned Iran’s ambassador in Islamabad on Tuesday in protest at Iranian threats to strike targets inside Pakistan, Shehab.ps has reported. Mehdi Honardoost was asked to explain the comment by the Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Mohamed Baqeri, that certain areas in Pakistan have been turned into “terror shelters”.

“Unfortunately, Pakistani areas adjacent to eastern Iran provide safe refuge and training points for terrorists collaborating with Saudi Arabia and US support,” added the general.

A foreign ministry spokesperson said that the ambassador had received a “strong message” that such remarks could harm the friendly relationship between Islamabad and Tehran, and increase tension in the region.

Baqeri apparently called for the Pakistani authorities to bear responsibility for monitoring the border, arresting terrorists and destroying their strongholds. On Wednesday, ten Iranian soldiers were killed in clashes with armed militias on the border with Pakistan. “If these violations continue, we will attack the shelters and refuges of terrorists anywhere,” the Iranian chief of staff warned.