Tensions between Iran and Pakistan have hit a new low. How will things unfold going forward? Pakistan military carried out strikes on Iran's Baloch province. Watch to know more!

Pakistan military carries out strikes on Iran, 9 killed

Amid the Pakistan-Iran strikes targeting militants in border regions, China on Thursday (Jan 18) said that it is willing to play a "constructive role" in case the two sides agree to let Beijing mediate in ensuring de-escalation in the region.&nbsp;

"The Chinese side sincerely hopes that the two sides can exercise calm and restraint and avoid an escalation of tension," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in a regular press conference.

"We are also willing to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation if both sides so wish," she added.&nbsp;

China has earlier played a crucial role in brokering the Saudi-Iran deal in March last year, in a move that brought a thaw after years of rivalry between the Middle Eastern nations. In the statement, Mao also said that Iran and Pakistan were "friendly countries to China, and countries with important influence".

China is often touted as Pakistan's "all-weather" friend. Iran also holds good ties with Beijing, which is its comprehensive strategic partner. Therefore, China can play a crucial role in the evolving situation in Southwest Asia.&nbsp;

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It could play a role in bringing about a diplomatic solution to the issue that saw a further intensification after Pakistan struck Iran a day after Tehran hit "terrorist" bases there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2>Pakistan strikes Iran&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistani air strikes on Iran killed nine people in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 18).&nbsp;Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, who was in Davos to attend the World Economic Forum, is returning after the situation snowballed with Iran&nbsp;summoning Pakistan's charge d'affaires.&nbsp;

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"Following the early morning attack by Pakistan on a border village in Sistan Baluchistan province, an hour ago the Pakistani charge d'affaires in Tehran was summoned to the Foreign Ministry for an explanation," Tasnim news agency said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pakistan has initiated an Operation, codenamed&nbsp;Marg Bar Sarmachar, to carry out retaliatory strikes against Iran.&nbsp;

Pakistan's foreign ministry, in a statement, said, "A number of terrorists were killed during the intelligence-based operation." As per Islamabad, there were a "series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts".&nbsp;

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"Pakistan fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the ministry said adding,&nbsp;"the sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest, which is paramount and cannot be compromised."&nbsp;

Iran&nbsp;on Tuesday (Jan 16) struck two bases of terror group Jaish al-Adl in the Balochistan province, resulting&nbsp;in the killing of two children.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Amid the Pakistan-Iran strikes targeting militants in border regions, China on Thursday (Jan 18) said that it is willing to play a "constructive role" in case the two sides agree to let Beijing mediate in ensuring de-escalation in the region.

Amid the Pakistan-Iran strikes targeting militants in border regions, China on Thursday (Jan 18) said that it is willing to play a "constructive role" in case the two sides agree to let Beijing mediate in ensuring de-escalation in the region. "The Chinese side sincerely hopes that the two sides can exercise calm and restraint and avoid an escalation of tension," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said in a regular press conference. "We are also willing to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation if both sides so wish," she added. China has earlier played a crucial role in brokering the Saudi-Iran deal in March last year, in a move that brought a thaw after years of rivalry between the Middle Eastern nations. In the statement, Mao also said that Iran and Pakistan were "friendly countries to China, and countries with important influence". China is often touted as Pakistan's "all-weather" friend. Iran also holds good ties with Beijing, which is its comprehensive strategic partner. Therefore, China can play a crucial role in the evolving situation in Southwest Asia. Also Read | Western officials explore confiscating $300 bn Russian assets: Report It could play a role in bringing about a diplomatic solution to the issue that saw a further intensification after Pakistan struck Iran a day after Tehran hit "terrorist" bases there. Pakistan strikes Iran Pakistani air strikes on Iran killed nine people in the morning hours of Thursday (Jan 18). Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, who was in Davos to attend the World Economic Forum, is returning after the situation snowballed with Iran summoning Pakistan's charge d'affaires. Also Read | Can Nikki Haley outrun Donald Trump in New Hampshire? Here's what a poll says "Following the early morning attack by Pakistan on a border village in Sistan Baluchistan province, an hour ago the Pakistani charge d'affaires in Tehran was summoned to the Foreign Ministry for an explanation," Tasnim news agency said. Meanwhile, Pakistan has initiated an Operation, codenamed Marg Bar Sarmachar, to carry out retaliatory strikes against Iran. Pakistan's foreign ministry, in a statement, said, "A number of terrorists were killed during the intelligence-based operation." As per Islamabad, there were a "series of highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts". Watch | Hunter Biden prosecutor argues gun charges should proceed × "Pakistan fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran," the ministry said adding, "the sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest, which is paramount and cannot be compromised." Iran on Tuesday (Jan 16) struck two bases of terror group Jaish al-Adl in the Balochistan province, resulting in the killing of two children. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan-Iran strikes: China ready to play 'constructive role' in de-escalating conflict

Iran-Pakistan tensions: Pak caretaker PM Anwar ul Haq Kakar, FM cut short foreign trips | WION

Islamabad says several terrorists have been killed during the intelligence-based operation named Marg Bar Sarmachar. Tensions between Iran and Pakistan have hit a new low. How will things unfold going forward?

Pakistan-Iran tensions: Afghanistan calls violence 'concerning & alarming' | World News | WION

Iran-Pakistan tensions escalate: China says willing to play constructive role to ease tensions

The tensions in Southwest Asia continue to escalate towards a crisis as Pakistan retaliated with multiple strikes in Iran a day after Tehran targeted a Sunni jihadist group based out of Balochistan. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war's expansion into the Red Sea shipping route has become a major flashpoint in the region as the US launched a fourth wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen.

Click here to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-attack-in-iran-day-after-deadly-balochistan-strike-report-681019">Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack</a>

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A day after Iran launched airstrikes to target a jihadist group based in Pakistan, Islamabad has retaliated with strikes at multiple locations inside Iran, WION can confirm.

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The United States has conducted another round of strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, as the situation in the Middle East continues to be volatile.

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Ram Lalla's idol was taken inside the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya using a crane in the late evening hours on January 17. Now, the idol will be placed inside the temple's sanctum sanctorum.

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Buckingham Palace said Wednesday (Jan 17) that the British head of state&nbsp;King&nbsp;Charles&nbsp;III&nbsp;will be hospitalised next week for a corrective procedure to treat an enlarged prostate.&nbsp;

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/17/406353-untitled-design-2024-01-17t220326117.png?imwidth=3840" /> 
India took two super overs to beat Afghanistan in the third T20I on Wednesday (January 17) in Bengaluru&nbsp;despite putting up a 200-plus total in the regular 20 overs. In the second super over, India batted first and scored 11 runs in five balls as they lost two wickets and wasted one ball. Defending 12 runs, Ravi Bishnoi gave only one run in three balls and took two wickets to help India win against Afghanistan.

The tensions in Southwest Asia continue to escalate towards a crisis as Pakistan retaliated with multiple strikes in Iran a day after Tehran targeted a Sunni jihadist group based out of Balochistan.

The tensions in Southwest Asia continue to escalate towards a crisis as Pakistan retaliated with multiple strikes in Iran a day after Tehran targeted a Sunni jihadist group based out of Balochistan. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war's expansion into the Red Sea shipping route has become a major flashpoint in the region as the US launched a fourth wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen. Click here to read more: Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack A day after Iran launched airstrikes to target a jihadist group based in Pakistan, Islamabad has retaliated with strikes at multiple locations inside Iran, WION can confirm. Middle East crisis updates: US launches fresh wave of strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen The United States has conducted another round of strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, as the situation in the Middle East continues to be volatile. Ram Mandir consecration updates: Ram Lalla idol enters Ayodhya temple using a crane Ram Lalla's idol was taken inside the Ram Mandir complex in Ayodhya using a crane in the late evening hours on January 17. Now, the idol will be placed inside the temple's sanctum sanctorum. India keeps an eye for $100 billion annual FDI boost: Report India is setting its sights on attracting a whopping $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) in the coming years, according to Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. British monarch King Charles III to have treatment for enlarged prostate Buckingham Palace said Wednesday (Jan 17) that the British head of state King Charles III will be hospitalised next week for a corrective procedure to treat an enlarged prostate. India beat Afghanistan in double super over in third T20I despite posting 212; complete 3-0 whitewash India took two super overs to beat Afghanistan in the third T20I on Wednesday (January 17) in Bengaluru despite putting up a 200-plus total in the regular 20 overs. In the second super over, India batted first and scored 11 runs in five balls as they lost two wickets and wasted one ball. Defending 12 runs, Ravi Bishnoi gave only one run in three balls and took two wickets to help India win against Afghanistan.

Morning brief: Pakistan retaliates with strikes inside Iran; Red Sea crisis escalates amid Gaza war

A day after Iran launched airstrikes to target a jihadist group based in Pakistan, Islamabad has retaliated with strikes at multiple locations inside Iran, WION can confirm.

"Pakistan struck on Baloch terrorists in Iran through its airforce in the Saravan and Jalq areas deep inside Iran," a Pakistani military source claimed.

Several locations have been targeted by the Pakistani forces deep inside Iran, the source added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-why-did-iran-attack-pakistan-what-is-jaish-al-adl-680852">Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran?</a>

Pakistan later stated it launched an operation codenamed 'Marg Bar Sarmachar' to launch precision military strikes inside Iran.

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Pakistan confirms strikes in Iran under operation "Marg Bar Sarmachar". Pakistan MOFA Release: <a href="https://t.co/CIdz2OrneG">https://t.co/CIdz2OrneG</a> <a href="https://t.co/TSCoa2Omba">pic.twitter.com/TSCoa2Omba</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1747840407952855048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, Pakistan's foreign ministry&nbsp;claimed that two children were killed and three others injured in an "illegal" airstrike by Iran. Pakistan subsequently responded by expelling the Iranian ambassador in Islamabad and recalled its envoy from Tehran.

Iranian state media said that Iran&nbsp;targeted two camps of the Jaish al-Adl terror group&nbsp;in Balochistan's Panjgur region. Tehran had previously linked the jihadist group with attacks on its security forces.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan hits militant targets in Iran day after missile strikes in Balochistan

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While the US condemned the Iranian strike in Pakistan, in addition to Tehran's missile attacks in Iran and Syria, China urged both Tehran and Islamabad to exercise restraint.&nbsp;

India said that&nbsp;it understands the "actions that countries take in their self-defence".

The Iran-Pakistan tensions appear to escalate at a time when the crisis in the Red Sea over trade disruption&nbsp;continues to build up amid the rampant attacks by Yemen's Houthis on the shipping route.&nbsp;

A day after Iran launched airstrikes to target a jihadist group based in Pakistan, Islamabad has retaliated with strikes at multiple locations inside Iran, WION can confirm.

A day after Iran launched airstrikes to target a jihadist group based in Pakistan, Islamabad has retaliated with strikes at multiple locations inside Iran, WION can confirm. "Pakistan struck on Baloch terrorists in Iran through its airforce in the Saravan and Jalq areas deep inside Iran," a Pakistani military source claimed. Several locations have been targeted by the Pakistani forces deep inside Iran, the source added. Also read | Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran? Pakistan later stated it launched an operation codenamed 'Marg Bar Sarmachar' to launch precision military strikes inside Iran. Pakistan confirms strikes in Iran under operation "Marg Bar Sarmachar". Pakistan MOFA Release: https://t.co/CIdz2OrneG pic.twitter.com/TSCoa2Omba — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) January 18, 2024 × On Wednesday, Pakistan's foreign ministry claimed that two children were killed and three others injured in an "illegal" airstrike by Iran. Pakistan subsequently responded by expelling the Iranian ambassador in Islamabad and recalled its envoy from Tehran. Iranian state media said that Iran targeted two camps of the Jaish al-Adl terror group in Balochistan's Panjgur region. Tehran had previously linked the jihadist group with attacks on its security forces. Also watch | Pakistan hits militant targets in Iran day after missile strikes in Balochistan × While the US condemned the Iranian strike in Pakistan, in addition to Tehran's missile attacks in Iran and Syria, China urged both Tehran and Islamabad to exercise restraint. India said that it understands the "actions that countries take in their self-defence". The Iran-Pakistan tensions appear to escalate at a time when the crisis in the Red Sea over trade disruption continues to build up amid the rampant attacks by Yemen's Houthis on the shipping route.

Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported.

The high court upheld the decisions of the returning officer (RO) and appellate tribunal given against acceptance of the disqualified former premier's nomination papers from NA-122 and NA-89 constituencies.

It reported that Imran's nomination papers had been rejected primarily on the grounds of being convicted in the Toshakhana case, in which he was sentenced to three years of imprisonment. The case, filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), had accused Imran of not mentioning the details of state gifts in his tax declarations.

Imran's nomination papers from NA-122 were also dismissed on the grounds of the proposer not being a voter from the constituency.

The appellate tribunals had also upheld the decisions of the respective returning officers (ROs) with an observation that the conviction and sentence were two different terms as conviction pertained to the guilty verdict and sentence stands for the rigours following conviction.

Earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) reserved the decision on a writ petition filed by Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan against the election appellate tribunal's dismissal of his appeal regarding the rejection of his nomination papers by the Returning Officer (RO), The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday.

Arguing during the hearing, Imran Khan's counsel contended that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) lacks the authority to disqualify an individual.

The tribunals had noted that the conviction meant a guilty verdict pronounced by a court in reference to the delinquency attributed to an accused, whereas the sentence denoted the quantum of punishment.

Subsequently, Imran had filed two petitions in the LHC asking the high court to set aside the decisions of the ROs and the appellate tribunals of rejecting the nomination papers of the petitioner from both constituencies of the National Assembly.

During the previous hearing, Advocate Uzair Bhandari had argued on behalf of Imran that the conviction on the charge of moral turpitude did not fall under the definition of disqualification. He said the conviction of the petitioner could not be equated with the conviction for corruption or accumulating illegal assets, Dawn News reported.

He also pointed out that an Indian court enlisted the offence of moral turpitude lower than the offence involving financial corruption. However, the bench observed that the standards of morality in Pakistan were different from other regions.

Bhandari further argued that the RO had no jurisdiction to pass the impugned order on the basis of the conviction on moral turpitude. Meanwhile, a lawyer for the ECP argued that the petitioner's conviction was still in force and he had not been acquitted by the high court.

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported.

In a setback for Pakistan's former premier Imran Khan, the Lahore High Court on Wednesday upheld the rejection of his nomination papers for the February 8 general elections, Dawn News reported. The high court upheld the decisions of the returning officer (RO) and appellate tribunal given against acceptance of the disqualified former premier's nomination papers from NA-122 and NA-89 constituencies. It reported that Imran's nomination papers had been rejected primarily on the grounds of being convicted in the Toshakhana case, in which he was sentenced to three years of imprisonment. The case, filed by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), had accused Imran of not mentioning the details of state gifts in his tax declarations. Imran's nomination papers from NA-122 were also dismissed on the grounds of the proposer not being a voter from the constituency. The appellate tribunals had also upheld the decisions of the respective returning officers (ROs) with an observation that the conviction and sentence were two different terms as conviction pertained to the guilty verdict and sentence stands for the rigours following conviction. Earlier, the Lahore High Court (LHC) reserved the decision on a writ petition filed by Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan against the election appellate tribunal's dismissal of his appeal regarding the rejection of his nomination papers by the Returning Officer (RO), The Express Tribune reported on Tuesday. Arguing during the hearing, Imran Khan's counsel contended that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) lacks the authority to disqualify an individual. The tribunals had noted that the conviction meant a guilty verdict pronounced by a court in reference to the delinquency attributed to an accused, whereas the sentence denoted the quantum of punishment. Subsequently, Imran had filed two petitions in the LHC asking the high court to set aside the decisions of the ROs and the appellate tribunals of rejecting the nomination papers of the petitioner from both constituencies of the National Assembly. During the previous hearing, Advocate Uzair Bhandari had argued on behalf of Imran that the conviction on the charge of moral turpitude did not fall under the definition of disqualification. He said the conviction of the petitioner could not be equated with the conviction for corruption or accumulating illegal assets, Dawn News reported. He also pointed out that an Indian court enlisted the offence of moral turpitude lower than the offence involving financial corruption. However, the bench observed that the standards of morality in Pakistan were different from other regions. Bhandari further argued that the RO had no jurisdiction to pass the impugned order on the basis of the conviction on moral turpitude. Meanwhile, a lawyer for the ECP argued that the petitioner's conviction was still in force and he had not been acquitted by the high court.

Pakistan elections: Imran Khan's hopes to contest polls get another setback

Iranian Defence Minister&nbsp;Mohammad Reza Gharaei&nbsp;Ashtiani vowed "limitless defence" while addressing recent missile attacks carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) against terrorists in the region.

Undeterred by potential threats, Ashtiani said&nbsp;that Iran is prepared to respond decisively from any location that poses a threat to the nation.

His statement came during a cabinet session on Wednesday (Jan 17).

While underscoring Iran's commitment to condemning terrorism globally, Ashtiani assured that the country's response to any violation of people's rights and terrorist actions against Iranians would be proportionate, decisive, and tough.&nbsp;

Ashtiani made it clear that Iran does not set any limits when it comes to reacting strongly against violations of people's rights and terrorist activities targeting Iranians.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-barrage-of-missile-strikes-in-iraq-and-syria-680336">Also read |&nbsp;Iran launches barrage of missile strikes in northern Iraq and Syria; US condemns attacks</a>

<h2>Emphasis on international relations</h2>

Highlighting Iran's diplomatic principles, Ashtiani stressed the nation's respect for the sovereignty, interests, rights, laws, and territorial integrity of all countries, particularly its neighbors

The IRGC's recent missile strikes against terrorists included launches from Khuzestan province in southwest Iran and other regions. These actions were in response to terrorist activities, particularly those claimed by Daesh, which orchestrated bomb blasts during a memorial service for General Qassem Soleimani, resulting in nearly 100 casualties.

<h2>Escalation with Pakistan: Ambassador recall decision</h2>

In a related development, Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran.

It came after&nbsp;Tuesday's&nbsp;missile and drone strike on the Jaish al-Adl base in Pakistan's Balochistan region,&nbsp; the first-ever missile strike by Iranian forces on Pakistani soil.

The recall decision follows recent events, and the diplomatic move signals a strain in relations between the two nations.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel conducts air strikes in West Bank, head of terror cell killed

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Pakistan reported two children were killed and three injured, condemning Iran's actions and expressing concern over the lack of prior communication through established channels.

"We have conveyed this message to the Iranian government. We have also informed them that Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran and that the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan who is currently visiting Iran may not return for the time being. We have also decided to suspend all high-level visits that are ongoing or planned between Pakistan and Iran in the coming days," the ministry said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Defence Minister Mohammad Reza Gharaei Ashtiani vowed "limitless defence" while addressing recent missile attacks carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) against terrorists in the region.

Iranian Defence Minister Mohammad Reza Gharaei Ashtiani vowed "limitless defence" while addressing recent missile attacks carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) against terrorists in the region. Undeterred by potential threats, Ashtiani said that Iran is prepared to respond decisively from any location that poses a threat to the nation. His statement came during a cabinet session on Wednesday (Jan 17). While underscoring Iran's commitment to condemning terrorism globally, Ashtiani assured that the country's response to any violation of people's rights and terrorist actions against Iranians would be proportionate, decisive, and tough. Ashtiani made it clear that Iran does not set any limits when it comes to reacting strongly against violations of people's rights and terrorist activities targeting Iranians. Also read | Iran launches barrage of missile strikes in northern Iraq and Syria; US condemns attacks Emphasis on international relations Highlighting Iran's diplomatic principles, Ashtiani stressed the nation's respect for the sovereignty, interests, rights, laws, and territorial integrity of all countries, particularly its neighbors The IRGC's recent missile strikes against terrorists included launches from Khuzestan province in southwest Iran and other regions. These actions were in response to terrorist activities, particularly those claimed by Daesh, which orchestrated bomb blasts during a memorial service for General Qassem Soleimani, resulting in nearly 100 casualties. Escalation with Pakistan: Ambassador recall decision In a related development, Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran. It came after Tuesday's missile and drone strike on the Jaish al-Adl base in Pakistan's Balochistan region, the first-ever missile strike by Iranian forces on Pakistani soil. The recall decision follows recent events, and the diplomatic move signals a strain in relations between the two nations. Also watch | Israel conducts air strikes in West Bank, head of terror cell killed Pakistan reported two children were killed and three injured, condemning Iran's actions and expressing concern over the lack of prior communication through established channels. "We have conveyed this message to the Iranian government. We have also informed them that Pakistan has decided to recall its ambassador from Iran and that the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan who is currently visiting Iran may not return for the time being. We have also decided to suspend all high-level visits that are ongoing or planned between Pakistan and Iran in the coming days," the ministry said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak recalls envoy to Iran as Tehran vows ‘limitless defence’ after air strikes

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) struck inside Iran's&nbsp;Sistan and Baluchestan province a day after Iranian strikes targeted a jihadist group based in Pakistan's Balochistan province. The strikes killed seven people, including three women, Iranian state media reported.

The death toll subsequently&nbsp;rose to nine, up from seven earlier. "Two men were also killed in the missile attack this morning in one of the border villages of Saravan, bringing the death toll to nine," the official IRNA news agency said quoting Alireza Marhamati, deputy provincial governor of Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province.

According to a statement by Pakistan's&nbsp;Foreign Office (FO), a series of "highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes" were conducted that&nbsp;killed several terrorists during the&nbsp;operation codenamed 'Marg Bar Sarmachar'.

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“This morning Pakistan undertook precision strikes inside Sistan Balochistan in Iran. A number of terrorists were killed. The operation was codenamed as Operation Margbar Sarmachar”, says spox @FoeignOfficePk in her weekly briefing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanStrikesBack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanStrikesBack</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ny08HqMVyf">pic.twitter.com/Ny08HqMVyf</a>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1747870069538066586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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A security source cited by Iran's Mehr News agency had earlier said that a total of seven people were killed in the missile attack launched by Pakistan on a border village. All seven people were described as 'foreign nationals'. They reportedly included three women and four&nbsp;children.

Iran on Tuesday (Jan 17) laun­ched attacks in Pakistan targeting the bases for the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan which prompted the downgrading of diplomatic ties between Islamabad and Tehran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-launches-attack-in-iran-day-after-deadly-balochistan-strike-report-681019">Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack</a>

The Foreign Office statement on Thursday morning said: "Over the last several years, in our engagements with Iran, Pakistan has consistently shared its serious concerns about the safe havens and sanctuaries enjoyed by Pakistani origin terrorists calling themselves Sarmachars on the ungoverned spaces inside Iran. Pakistan also shared multiple dossiers with concrete evidence of the presence and activities of these terrorists."

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan hits militant targets in Iran day after missile strikes in Balochistan

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"However, because of lack of action on our serious concerns, these so-called Sarmachars continued to spill the blood of innocent Pakistanis with impunity. This morning’s action was taken in light of credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities by these so-called Sarmachars."

The statement stressed that Pakistan "fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran", adding "the sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest which is paramount and cannot be compromised".

"Iran is a brotherly country and the people of Pakistan have great respect and affection for the Iranian people. We have always emphasised dialogue and cooperation in confronting common challenges including the menace of terrorism and will continue to endeavour to find joint solutions," it concluded.

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) struck inside Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan province a day after Iranian strikes targeted a jihadist group based in Pakistan's Balochistan province.

Pakistan on Thursday (Jan 18) struck inside Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan province a day after Iranian strikes targeted a jihadist group based in Pakistan's Balochistan province. The strikes killed seven people, including three women, Iranian state media reported. The death toll subsequently rose to nine, up from seven earlier. "Two men were also killed in the missile attack this morning in one of the border villages of Saravan, bringing the death toll to nine," the official IRNA news agency said quoting Alireza Marhamati, deputy provincial governor of Iran's Sistan-Baluchistan province. According to a statement by Pakistan's Foreign Office (FO), a series of "highly coordinated and specifically targeted precision military strikes" were conducted that killed several terrorists during the operation codenamed 'Marg Bar Sarmachar'. “This morning Pakistan undertook precision strikes inside Sistan Balochistan in Iran. A number of terrorists were killed. The operation was codenamed as Operation Margbar Sarmachar”, says spox @FoeignOfficePk in her weekly briefing. #Pakistan #Iran #PakistanStrikesBack pic.twitter.com/Ny08HqMVyf — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) January 18, 2024 × A security source cited by Iran's Mehr News agency had earlier said that a total of seven people were killed in the missile attack launched by Pakistan on a border village. All seven people were described as 'foreign nationals'. They reportedly included three women and four children. Iran on Tuesday (Jan 17) launched attacks in Pakistan targeting the bases for the militant group Jaish al-Adl in the border town of Panjgur in Balochistan which prompted the downgrading of diplomatic ties between Islamabad and Tehran. Also read | Pakistan retaliates with multiple strikes in Iran a day after deadly Balochistan attack The Foreign Office statement on Thursday morning said: "Over the last several years, in our engagements with Iran, Pakistan has consistently shared its serious concerns about the safe havens and sanctuaries enjoyed by Pakistani origin terrorists calling themselves Sarmachars on the ungoverned spaces inside Iran. Pakistan also shared multiple dossiers with concrete evidence of the presence and activities of these terrorists." Also watch | Pakistan hits militant targets in Iran day after missile strikes in Balochistan × "However, because of lack of action on our serious concerns, these so-called Sarmachars continued to spill the blood of innocent Pakistanis with impunity. This morning’s action was taken in light of credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities by these so-called Sarmachars." The statement stressed that Pakistan "fully respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran", adding "the sole objective of today’s act was in pursuit of Pakistan’s own security and national interest which is paramount and cannot be compromised". "Iran is a brotherly country and the people of Pakistan have great respect and affection for the Iranian people. We have always emphasised dialogue and cooperation in confronting common challenges including the menace of terrorism and will continue to endeavour to find joint solutions," it concluded.

Pakistan calls Iran a 'brotherly neighbour' hours after launching airstrikes that killed 9

Islamabad says several terrorists have been killed during the intelligence-based operation named Marg Bar Sarmachar. Tensions between Iran and Pakistan have hit a new low. How will things unfold going forward? Prof. James a. Russell, associate professor in the department of national security affairs at NPS joins us to discuss.

Pakistan-Iran Tensions: Islamabad confirms strike in Iran, atleast 9 killed

Pakistan's operation 'Marg Bar Sarmachar' in Iran

Jaish al-Adl, the shadowy Sunni extremist group operating on the Iran-Pakistan border, continues to cast a shadow over the region. WION tells you more about the group in this report.

Why Iran attacked Pakistan's Sunni Extremist Group Jaish al-Adl?

Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported on Tuesday (Jan 16) that Tehran has attacked sites in Pakistan it described as bases for militant group Jaish al-Adl.&nbsp;

This came a day after Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards attacked targets in Iraq and Syria with missiles.&nbsp;

The report claimed that two important bases were housing the Jaish ul-Adl terror group. They were targeted and destroyed by missiles and drones earlier in the day.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-missing-us-navy-seals-were-on-mission-to-stop-iranian-weapons-bound-for-houthi-rebels-us-680621">Two missing US Navy SEALs were on mission to stop Iranian weapons bound for Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;

"These bases were hit and destroyed by missiles and drones," Iranian state media reported, without revealing further details.&nbsp;

Some other local media in Iran suggest that the targeted camps were located in a place named Kuhe Sabz in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, where one of the largest bases of the Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group is reportedly located.&nbsp;

The militant group has previously carried out attacks on Iranian security troops along the border with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Putin planning World War 3? Leaked documents from German MoD reveal NATO's worst nightmare

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported on Tuesday (Jan 16) that Tehran has attacked sites in Pakistan it described as bases for militant group Jaish al-Adl. This came a day after Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards attacked targets in Iraq and Syria with missiles.

Iran's state-run IRNA news agency reported on Tuesday (Jan 16) that Tehran has attacked sites in Pakistan it described as bases for militant group Jaish al-Adl. This came a day after Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards attacked targets in Iraq and Syria with missiles. The report claimed that two important bases were housing the Jaish ul-Adl terror group. They were targeted and destroyed by missiles and drones earlier in the day. Also read: Two missing US Navy SEALs were on mission to stop Iranian weapons bound for Houthi rebels "These bases were hit and destroyed by missiles and drones," Iranian state media reported, without revealing further details. Some other local media in Iran suggest that the targeted camps were located in a place named Kuhe Sabz in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, where one of the largest bases of the Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group is reportedly located. The militant group has previously carried out attacks on Iranian security troops along the border with Pakistan. Watch: Putin planning World War 3? Leaked documents from German MoD reveal NATO's worst nightmare × (With inputs from agencies)

Iran claims to have attacked Baluchi militant group bases in Pakistan

Iran has carried out 'precision missile and drone strikes' targetting Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16). Confirming that&nbsp;its airspace was indeed violated, Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike.

The Israel-Hamas war continues to spiral across West Asia. While the deadly Israeli strikes continue to wreak havoc on Palestinians in Gaza, the targeted attacks on the shipping route by Iran-backed and Yemen-based Houthi rebels continue to pose a challenge to the global economy.

In sports, Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round.

Click here to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-two-dead-many-injured-in-iranian-airstrikes-inside-balochistan-680658">Pakistan says two dead after Iran struck 'terror group's bases in Balochistan'</a>

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Hours after Iran said that its "precision missile and drone strikes" targeted Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16), Islamabad confirmed that its airspace was indeed violated. Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike inside its borders and claimed that it killed two children.

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Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for the delivery of crucial medicine aid to hostages held captive by the militant group, a Qatar-brokered deal which is important given the families of the hostages have been calling for aid to their loved ones.&nbsp;This comes days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on January 12 said that the medicines will be delivered in the next few days.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iran has carried out 'precision missile and drone strikes' targetting Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16).

Iran has carried out 'precision missile and drone strikes' targetting Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16). Confirming that its airspace was indeed violated, Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike. The Israel-Hamas war continues to spiral across West Asia. While the deadly Israeli strikes continue to wreak havoc on Palestinians in Gaza, the targeted attacks on the shipping route by Iran-backed and Yemen-based Houthi rebels continue to pose a challenge to the global economy. In sports, Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round. Click here to read more: Pakistan says two dead after Iran struck 'terror group's bases in Balochistan' Hours after Iran said that its "precision missile and drone strikes" targeted Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16), Islamabad confirmed that its airspace was indeed violated. Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike inside its borders and claimed that it killed two children. US neutralises 4 Houthi anti-ship missiles, Malta-flagged bulk carrier hit The US has claimed it destroyed four anti-ship ballistic missiles that the Houthi terrorists from Yemen fired on Tuesday (Jan 16). The Houthis reportedly struck a Maltese-flagged bulk carrier during the skirmish, but it remained seaworthy. China's population declines for 2nd straight year, drops by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023 China's population has declined for the second consecutive year with the total population decreasing by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023, media reports cited the country's National Bureau of Statistics. The population in 2023 shrank at an even faster rate than was the case in 2022. Next Republican debate cancelled after Nikki Haley pulls out saying she wants Donald Trump on stage The next presidential debate has been cancelled after former UN ambassador Nikki Haley said she would not appear on stage unless Donald Trump participates, ABC News announced on Tuesday (Jan 16). Canada minister says study permits to students from India drop due to dispute The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected Canadian diplomats who would process the permits and fewer Indian students applied due to a diplomatic dispute over the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada, a top Canadian official told Reuters. Israel reaches Qatar-brokered deal with Hamas, medicines for hostages in exchange for aid to Gaza Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for the delivery of crucial medicine aid to hostages held captive by the militant group, a Qatar-brokered deal which is important given the families of the hostages have been calling for aid to their loved ones. This comes days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on January 12 said that the medicines will be delivered in the next few days. Australian Open: Teenager Mirra Andreeva thrashes Wimbledon runner-up Ons Jabeur in second round Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva played "amazing" tennis to crush sixth seed Ons Jabeur in under an hour Wednesday, sending the Tunisian tumbling out of the Australian Open in the second round. Emmy Awards 2023: Key highlights from TV’s biggest night, all snubs and surprises The TV Academy delivered on its promise of acknowledging the best works on TV in the past year as Succession and The Bear won six awards each – from best drama/comedy to acting. Coming four months later than its scheduled date, the Emmys didn’t disappoint. We spotted the best of glam, the best of speeches, and caught some of the most memorable moments as makers and actors of shows that have wrapped up got a chance to thank their fans for the love and support they received.

Morning brief: Iran strikes 'terror' inside Pakistan; Russian teen stuns in Aus Open, and more

Hours after Iran said that its "precision missile and drone strikes" targeted Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16), Islamabad confirmed that its airspace was indeed violated. Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike inside its borders and claimed that it killed two children.

The Iranian airstrikes inside Pakistan come weeks after Tehran accused Jaish al-Adl militants of storming a police station in the Iranian province of Sistan and Baluchestan, which killed 11 Iranian police officers.

Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 16), Iranian media reported that the country's forces destroyed two strongholds of the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl, known in Iran as Jaish al-Dhulm, in the Kouh-Sabz (green mountain) area of Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province. Iranian media described the airstrikes as having targeted 'terror group's bases in Balochistan'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iran-claims-to-have-attacked-baluchi-militant-group-bases-in-pakistan-680625">Iran claims to have attacked Baluchi militant group bases in Pakistan</a>

The Jaish al-Adl militant group late on Tuesday reportedly said in a Telegram post that Iran's Revolutionary Guards had used six attack drones and several rockets to destroy two houses where the children and wives of its militants lived.

<h2>Pakistan's response</h2>

Pakistan described Iranian airstrikes as an "unprovoked violation of its airspace" and warned of retaliation.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said that the attack on its territory killed "two innocent children while injuring three girls," and warned Iran of "serious consequences".&nbsp;

"It is even more concerning that this illegal act has taken place despite the existence of several channels of communication between Pakistan and Iran," the ministry said.

Pakistan also lodged a "strong protest" with a senior official in Iran’s Foreign Ministry in Tehran and called on the Iranian charge d’affairs, saying the "responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran."

Also watch |&nbsp;At least four Pakistani soldiers killed in terror attack along Iran border

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The Iranian strikes in Pakistan came a day after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched ballistic missiles, targeting what it claimed was a spy base for Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad in Erbil, northern Iraq, a claim Iraq later denounced by stating there was no Mossad base in Iraq.&nbsp;

<h2>About Jaish al-Adl</h2>

Jaish al-Adl, or Army of Justice, is a separatist militant group that operates both in Iran and Pakistan and has previously claimed responsibility for attacks against Iranian targets. Its stated goal is the independence of overall Shia majority Iran’s only Sunni-majority Sistan and Baluchestan province.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hours after Iran said that its "precision missile and drone strikes" targeted Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16), Islamabad confirmed that its airspace was indeed violated.

Hours after Iran said that its "precision missile and drone strikes" targeted Sunni militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province late on Tuesday (Jan 16), Islamabad confirmed that its airspace was indeed violated. Pakistan condemned the Iranian airstrike inside its borders and claimed that it killed two children. The Iranian airstrikes inside Pakistan come weeks after Tehran accused Jaish al-Adl militants of storming a police station in the Iranian province of Sistan and Baluchestan, which killed 11 Iranian police officers. Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 16), Iranian media reported that the country's forces destroyed two strongholds of the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl, known in Iran as Jaish al-Dhulm, in the Kouh-Sabz (green mountain) area of Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province. Iranian media described the airstrikes as having targeted 'terror group's bases in Balochistan'. Also read | Iran claims to have attacked Baluchi militant group bases in Pakistan The Jaish al-Adl militant group late on Tuesday reportedly said in a Telegram post that Iran's Revolutionary Guards had used six attack drones and several rockets to destroy two houses where the children and wives of its militants lived. Pakistan's response Pakistan described Iranian airstrikes as an "unprovoked violation of its airspace" and warned of retaliation. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said that the attack on its territory killed "two innocent children while injuring three girls," and warned Iran of "serious consequences". "It is even more concerning that this illegal act has taken place despite the existence of several channels of communication between Pakistan and Iran," the ministry said. Pakistan also lodged a "strong protest" with a senior official in Iran’s Foreign Ministry in Tehran and called on the Iranian charge d’affairs, saying the "responsibility for the consequences will lie squarely with Iran." Also watch | At least four Pakistani soldiers killed in terror attack along Iran border × The Iranian strikes in Pakistan came a day after Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched ballistic missiles, targeting what it claimed was a spy base for Israel’s intelligence agency Mossad in Erbil, northern Iraq, a claim Iraq later denounced by stating there was no Mossad base in Iraq. About Jaish al-Adl Jaish al-Adl, or Army of Justice, is a separatist militant group that operates both in Iran and Pakistan and has previously claimed responsibility for attacks against Iranian targets. Its stated goal is the independence of overall Shia majority Iran’s only Sunni-majority Sistan and Baluchestan province. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan says two children killed after Iran struck 'terror group's bases in Balochistan'

As tensions escalate, Islamabad has decided to recall its Iran envoy dubbing Tehran’s s deadly strikes as illegal and unacceptable. In addition, the south Asian country has suspended all high-level planned engagements between the two countries. Iran's strikes reportedly killed two and injured three in Pakistan’s Balochistan province.

Will Pakistan retaliate against 'unacceptable' Iran air attacks?

In an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick, Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi described the airspace violation by Iran as an unfortunate incident.&nbsp;In other news, the United States has once again designated Yemen's Houthi rebels, an Iran-backed group belonging to the Zaydi sect within the Shia branch of Islam, as a specially designated global terrorist organisation. On the climate front,&nbsp;New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant&nbsp;snowfall after a staggering 700 days.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-pakistan-calls-airspace-violation-by-iran-sad-incident-says-have-taken-measures-680919">Exclusive: Pakistan calls airspace violation by Iran ‘sad incident’, says ‘have taken measures’</a>

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Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi called the airspace violation by Iran a "sad incident" during an interview with WION's Pakistan&nbsp;bureau chief Anas Mallick.

Islamabad claimed that the airspace violation had caused the deaths of two children after Iranian state media said Iranian missiles targeted two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl.&nbsp;

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Vivek Ramaswamy, entrepreneur and political newcomer, announced that he was pulling out and endorsing Donald Trump. When he entered the 2024 presidential race, he said he would challenge more established candidates in Republicans.&nbsp;

After he was projected to finish a distant fourth in the Iowa caucuses, Ramaswamy told supporters, "We are going to suspend this presidential campaign."

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The United States&nbsp;re-listed Yemen's Houthis, an Iran-backed group comprising individuals of the Zaydi sect within the Shia branch of Islam, as a specially designated global terrorist group.&nbsp;

The White House cited "unprecedented attacks against United States military forces and international maritime vessels operating in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden", one of the world's most crucial shipping routes for global trade.&nbsp;

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British head of state&nbsp;King&nbsp;Charles&nbsp;III&nbsp;will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, Buckingham Palace said Wednesday.

"The&nbsp;King&nbsp;has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure," a statement read.

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China's population has declined for the second consecutive year with the total population decreasing by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023, media reports said citing the country's National Bureau of Statistics. The population in 2023 shrank at an even faster rate than was the case in 2022.&nbsp;

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New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant&nbsp; snowfall after a staggering 700 days. The event marked the conclusion of an exceptional period characterised by the absence of substantial snow, with Central Park reporting a layer of snow that broke the previous record set in 1998.

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In a statement during the cabinet session on Wednesday (Jan 17), Iranian Defence Minister&nbsp;Mohammad Reza Gharaei&nbsp;Ashtiani addressed recent missile attacks carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) against terrorists in the region.

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Drought conditions in Zimbabwe have led to the deaths of at least 160 elephants between August and December last year in&nbsp;Hwange national park, home to various endangered species,&nbsp;reported the Guardian.

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Two Canadian mayors have urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government to tackle increasing extortion threats toward businesses in their cities by helping create a multi-jurisdictional strategy.&nbsp;

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Thousands gathered in a rare large protest in the Russian region of Bashkortostan and clashed with riot police who fired tear gas and hit protesters with batons, on Wednesday (Jan 17), after a prominent local rights activist was sentenced to four years in a penal colony.

In an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick, Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi described the airspace violation by Iran as an unfortunate incident.

In an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick, Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi described the airspace violation by Iran as an unfortunate incident. In other news, the United States has once again designated Yemen's Houthi rebels, an Iran-backed group belonging to the Zaydi sect within the Shia branch of Islam, as a specially designated global terrorist organisation. On the climate front, New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant snowfall after a staggering 700 days. Click on the headlines to read more. Exclusive: Pakistan calls airspace violation by Iran ‘sad incident’, says ‘have taken measures’ Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi called the airspace violation by Iran a "sad incident" during an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick. Islamabad claimed that the airspace violation had caused the deaths of two children after Iranian state media said Iranian missiles targeted two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl. Is Ramaswamy trying to be Trump’s deputy? Latest developments suggest so Vivek Ramaswamy, entrepreneur and political newcomer, announced that he was pulling out and endorsing Donald Trump. When he entered the 2024 presidential race, he said he would challenge more established candidates in Republicans. After he was projected to finish a distant fourth in the Iowa caucuses, Ramaswamy told supporters, "We are going to suspend this presidential campaign." Red Sea tensions: How Yemen's Houthis became America's 'terrorists' once again The United States re-listed Yemen's Houthis, an Iran-backed group comprising individuals of the Zaydi sect within the Shia branch of Islam, as a specially designated global terrorist group. The White House cited "unprecedented attacks against United States military forces and international maritime vessels operating in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden", one of the world's most crucial shipping routes for global trade. King Charles III to receive hospital treatment for enlarged prostate: Buckingham Palace British head of state King Charles III will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, Buckingham Palace said Wednesday. "The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure," a statement read. China's population declines for 2nd straight year, drops by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023 China's population has declined for the second consecutive year with the total population decreasing by 2.75 million to 1.409 billion in 2023, media reports said citing the country's National Bureau of Statistics. The population in 2023 shrank at an even faster rate than was the case in 2022. New York gets first major snowfall in 2 years, while Shimla, Kashmir, Manali experience dry spell New York City witnessed a historic moment on January 16 as it finally saw significant snowfall after a staggering 700 days. The event marked the conclusion of an exceptional period characterised by the absence of substantial snow, with Central Park reporting a layer of snow that broke the previous record set in 1998. Pak recalls envoy to Iran as Tehran vows ‘limitless defence’ after air strikes In a statement during the cabinet session on Wednesday (Jan 17), Iranian Defence Minister Mohammad Reza Gharaei Ashtiani addressed recent missile attacks carried out by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) against terrorists in the region. Over 160 elephants die in Zimbabwe as climate change exacerbates threats Drought conditions in Zimbabwe have led to the deaths of at least 160 elephants between August and December last year in Hwange national park, home to various endangered species, reported the Guardian. Two Canadian mayors urge Trudeau government to tackle rising extortion threats towards South Asians Two Canadian mayors have urged Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his government to tackle increasing extortion threats toward businesses in their cities by helping create a multi-jurisdictional strategy. Russia protest: Demonstrators clash with riot police over jailing of rights activist Thousands gathered in a rare large protest in the Russian region of Bashkortostan and clashed with riot police who fired tear gas and hit protesters with batons, on Wednesday (Jan 17), after a prominent local rights activist was sentenced to four years in a penal colony.

Top 10 world news: Red sea tensions, US presidential elections, and more

The Election Commission of Pakistan has warned that the polls scheduled for February 8 may have to be delayed if requests keep coming to change the election symbols already allocated to candidates. PPP has also been denied the use of the party election symbol of arrow to its ticket holders in Punjab.

Pakistan's election commission warns of poll delay

Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi called the airspace violation by Iran a "sad incident" during an interview with WION's Pakistan&nbsp;bureau chief Anas Mallick.

Islamabad claimed that the airspace violation had caused the deaths of two children after Iranian state media said Iranian missiles targeted two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl.&nbsp;

A top Iranian diplomat said on Wednesday (Jan 17) that his country's armed forces targeted a "terrorist group" in Pakistan the day before.&nbsp;

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland: "On Pakistan, none of the nationals of the friendly and brotherly country of Pakistan were targeted by Iranian missiles and drones."&nbsp;

"The so-called Jaish al-Adl group, which is an Iranian terrorist group, was targeted," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pak-informs-iran-of-ambassador-recall-while-iran-affirms-limitless-measures-for-security-defence-680896">Pak recalls envoy to Iran as Tehran vows 'limitless defence' after air strikes</a>&nbsp;

Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012. It is blacklisted by Iran as a terrorist group and has carried out several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years. Earlier, Iran had launched missile attacks on "spy headquarters" and "terrorist" targets in Syria, and Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region.&nbsp;

During the interview with WION, which was aired on Wednesday, Solangi said, "There's a history of cordial relations between Iran and Pakistan. It is a sad incident."&nbsp;

"The government of Pakistan, especially the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has already responded. We have taken some measures and we are assessing the situation," he said.&nbsp;

"We are also in the process of investigating what happened and when, and who is responsible for it, despite the claims that have been made, but we would not rush to judgment," he further said during the interview.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-why-did-iran-attack-pakistan-what-is-jaish-al-adl-680852">Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran?</a>&nbsp;

Watch the interview here:&nbsp;

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Islamabad has decided to recall its Iran envoy dubbing Tehran's deadly strikes as illegal and unacceptable. 
 
In addition, the South Asian country has suspended all high-level planned engagements between the two countries.<a href="https://twitter.com/PriyankaSh25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PriyankaSh25</a> joined by <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnasMallick</a>, for insights <a href="https://t.co/Lvqz6Y8N4k">pic.twitter.com/Lvqz6Y8N4k</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1747636652397441267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Tensions flare up between Iran and Pakistan&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan on Wednesday recalled its ambassador from neighbouring Iran in the immediate aftermath of the airspace violation, the foreign ministry in Islamabad said.&nbsp;

The incident may cause a serious and unprecedented escalation amid tensions between the two Muslim nations, with the South Asian nation facing public pressure to retaliate.&nbsp;

But some experts suggested that Islamabad would consider diplomatic channels to tackle the issue, instead of military escalation.&nbsp;

Pakistan has neither confirmed the exact location nor the nature of the violation, but a local report mentioned that it was near Panjgur in southwest Balochistan province, where the countries share a sparsely populated border of nearly 1,000 kilometres.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi called the airspace violation by Iran a "sad incident" during an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick.

Pakistan's Caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi called the airspace violation by Iran a "sad incident" during an interview with WION's Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick. Islamabad claimed that the airspace violation had caused the deaths of two children after Iranian state media said Iranian missiles targeted two bases of the militant group Jaish al-Adl. A top Iranian diplomat said on Wednesday (Jan 17) that his country's armed forces targeted a "terrorist group" in Pakistan the day before. Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland: "On Pakistan, none of the nationals of the friendly and brotherly country of Pakistan were targeted by Iranian missiles and drones." "The so-called Jaish al-Adl group, which is an Iranian terrorist group, was targeted," he added. Also read: Pak recalls envoy to Iran as Tehran vows 'limitless defence' after air strikes Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012. It is blacklisted by Iran as a terrorist group and has carried out several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years. Earlier, Iran had launched missile attacks on "spy headquarters" and "terrorist" targets in Syria, and Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region. During the interview with WION, which was aired on Wednesday, Solangi said, "There's a history of cordial relations between Iran and Pakistan. It is a sad incident." "The government of Pakistan, especially the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has already responded. We have taken some measures and we are assessing the situation," he said. "We are also in the process of investigating what happened and when, and who is responsible for it, despite the claims that have been made, but we would not rush to judgment," he further said during the interview. Also read: Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran? Watch the interview here: Islamabad has decided to recall its Iran envoy dubbing Tehran's deadly strikes as illegal and unacceptable. In addition, the South Asian country has suspended all high-level planned engagements between the two countries.@PriyankaSh25 joined by @AnasMallick, for insights pic.twitter.com/Lvqz6Y8N4k — WION (@WIONews) January 17, 2024 × Tensions flare up between Iran and Pakistan Pakistan on Wednesday recalled its ambassador from neighbouring Iran in the immediate aftermath of the airspace violation, the foreign ministry in Islamabad said. The incident may cause a serious and unprecedented escalation amid tensions between the two Muslim nations, with the South Asian nation facing public pressure to retaliate. But some experts suggested that Islamabad would consider diplomatic channels to tackle the issue, instead of military escalation. Pakistan has neither confirmed the exact location nor the nature of the violation, but a local report mentioned that it was near Panjgur in southwest Balochistan province, where the countries share a sparsely populated border of nearly 1,000 kilometres.

Exclusive: Pakistan calls airspace violation by Iran ‘sad incident’, says ‘have taken measures’

Pakistan recalled its ambassador to Iran after the attack on the Balochistan province by Iranian forces killing two children. Pakistan on Wednesday recalled its ambassador to Iran after the latter launched attacks on the Balochistan province.

Pakistan reacts after Iran's deadly strike, calls the attack 'unacceptable'

Pakistan has warned Iran of "serious consequences" after an Iranian strike inside its borders killed two children. Iran says the missiles targetted a terror group. Could this lead to a bigger regional conflict? Priyanka Sharma speaks to Ambassador Anil Trigunayat.

Pakistan warns Iran of "serious consequences" after missile attack

Pak calls Iran attack 'unacceptable & illegal'

Pakistan slams Iranian strikes, recalls ambassador from Iran | Breaking News

Drones and missiles were used by Iran on Wednesday to attack Pakistan, claiming to target two bases used by the terrorist organization Jaish al-Adl. This came a day after the elite Revolutionary Guards carried out similar operations against Syria and Iraq. Pakistan denounced Iran's "unprovoked violation of its airspace" and threatened "consequences" in a sharply worded statement. Pakistan has reported that three children have been injured and two children have died as a result of the attack by Iran.

Iran strikes 'militant bases' inside Pakistan, latter warns of 'serious consequences' | WION

Breaching Pakistan's air defence system, Iran on Tuesday (Jan 16) targeted two key strongholds of terror outfit Jaish al-Adl (known in Iran as Jaysh al-Dhulm) in the restive Balochistan province using "precision missile and drone strikes".

Breaching Pakistan's air defence system, Iran on Tuesday (Jan 16) targeted two key strongholds of terror outfit Jaish al-Adl (known in Iran as Jaysh al-Dhulm) in the restive Balochistan province using "precision missile and drone strikes". The strike by Tehran inside Pakistani borders led to the death of two children, as per local reports. The terror group said in a Telegram post that Iran's Revolutionary Guards had used six attack drones and several rockets to destroy two houses where the children and wives of its terrorists lived. Late on Tuesday night, Islamabad confirmed the attack and 'unprovoked violation' of its airspace, stating it was unacceptable. "This violation of Pakistan's sovereignty is completely unacceptable and can have serious consequences. It is even more concerning that this illegal act has taken place despite the existence of several channels of communication between Pakistan and Iran," read the statement by the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The foreign affairs office said it had lodged a strong protest with the concerned senior official in the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tehran, whilst summoning the Iranian charge d'affaires. "Pakistan has always said terrorism is a common threat to all countries in the region that requires coordinated action. Such unilateral acts are not in conformity with good neighbourly relations and can seriously undermine bilateral trust and confidence." it added. Also read | Pakistan says two children killed after Iran struck 'terror group's bases in Balochistan' Why did Iran target Pakistan? According to media reports, the attack by the Iranian military was a retaliatory response to the death of 11 Iranian police force members who were killed by the notorious Sunni terror group, Jaish al-Adl. The terror outfit stormed into a police station in Sistan and Balouchestan province’s city of Rask, southeast of Iran last month and killed the officers. Following the incident, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and his Pakistani counterpart Jalil Abbas Jilani held a meeting where Tehran conveyed its dismay. Also read | Explained | The Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline: History, controversy and impediments Iran, for a long time, has suspected that Sunni-majority Pakistan gives safe haven to the insurgents, possibly at the behest of regional arch-rival Saudi Arabia. Iran has fought in border areas against the terrorists, but a missile-and-drone attack inside Pakistan is an unprecedented move. A senior Pakistan government official told AFP that Tehran had given no indication of the attack. More importantly, the strike took place on the same day as when Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian met Pakistan's caretaker prime minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. What is Jaish al-Adl? Founded in 2012, Jaish al-Adl, or Army of Justice, is a separatist terrorist group that operates both in Iran and Pakistan and has previously claimed responsibility for attacks against Iranian targets. Its stated goal is the independence of overall Shia majority Iran’s only Sunni-majority Sistan and Baluchestan province. In 2019, Jaish al-Adl claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing targeting a bus that killed 27 members of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. Watch | Iran strikes ‘militant bases’ in Pakistan, Pakistan warns of 'consequences' × What did other countries say? After the incident, China released a statement urging both sides to exercise caution and not allow the situation to go out of hand. "We call on both sides to exercise restraint, avoid actions that would lead to an escalation of tension and work together to maintain peace and stability," foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told a regular briefing. "We consider both Iran and Pakistan as close neighbours and major Islamic countries," she said. Previous instances of breach in Pakistani air defence This is not the first instance when Pakistani airspace has been breached by foreign nations to conduct operations on terror operatives or groups. In 2011, the US under former president Barack Obama carried out a daring operation to take out al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden. The Navy Seal commandos went deep inside the Pakistani territory in the city of Abbottabad and carried out the operation. Not only was Bin Laden killed but his body was also retrieved and later buried at sea in the Arabian Sea on the same day. Before the Pakistani military establishment could react, the operation was done. In 2016, India retaliated after Pakistan-sponsored terrorists belonging to Jaish-e-Mohammed struck in Uri against an Indian Army brigade headquarters, killing 19 soldiers and leaving several others injured. Also read | IAF's Balakot airstrikes: How 'Operation Bandar' surprised Pakistan The Indian forces coalesced in record time and conducted a surgical strike on the terror launch pads across the border. Estimates vary but as many as 50 to 70 terrorists were killed in the Indian Army operation. Similarly in 2019, post the Pulwama attacks, the Indian Air Force struck terrorist training camps in Balakote. The IAF also claimed that it downed a Pakistani F-16 fighter jet during the dogfight. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Why did Iran attack Pakistan? What is Jaish al-Adl group targeted by Tehran?

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The election countdown in Pakistan where the election countdown has begun. The country is headed to polls in just three weeks and the run up to this race to power is replete with twists and turns.

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