Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and Iranian Armed Forces Chief, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the security of their shared border during a phone call on Tuesday. The two military leaders emphasized the urgent need for joint efforts to tackle terrorism, particularly along the nearly 900-kilometre-long border that has faced persistent threats from groups like Jaish al-Adl and the Balochistan Liberation Army.

These threats have contributed to strained bilateral ties in recent years, with both countries at times accusing each other of harbouring militants. A statement from the Iranian embassy said both sides were ready to eliminate terrorism in order to secure their common border. Iranian state media IRNA reported that General Mousavi stressed the growing cross-border movement of terrorist groups and called for greater cooperation to counter these threats. 

Field Marshal Munir supported the call for increased coordination, stating that both nations must work together to transform the Pakistan-Iran border into one of "friendship, brotherhood, and economic development." He also extended condolences for victims of a recent terrorist attack in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, while General Mousavi offered sympathies to those affected by recent flooding in Pakistan, expressing Iran’s willingness to provide assistance. 

The conversation builds on recent high-level engagements, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to Pakistan earlier this month. During the visit, both sides highlighted the importance of peace and stability for economic cooperation in border areas. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed the sentiment, stating that security is fundamental to deepening bilateral ties.

“There will be zero tolerance for all forms of terrorism. An attack on Iran is no different from an attack on Pakistan,” he said. Both nations have pledged to enhance collaboration and take concrete steps to root out terrorism for long-term regional peace and development.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)