The spark that ignited this sudden conflict in the region raises questions about the motives and hidden agendas of the involved nations. The extension of the Middle East’s border to encompass the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea,

or the Baloch Sea prompts speculation regarding Iranian ambitions or potential American conspiracies in establishing Iran as a neighbor. The resultant confusion could potentially sway Pakistan back towards aligning with American interests, a path it seems to have already traversed. At the forefront of this geopolitical strife are the Baloch people, residing on both sides of the border.

The immediate casualties of this conflict, including women and children, highlight the human toll of the animosity between the two nations. If the conflict remains confined to Balochistan, a large population of Baloch people could fall victim to this sudden disaster. Furthermore, the specter of a state of war looms, with the upcoming Pakistani elections on February 8 adding another layer of complexity to the situation. The recent airstrikes carried out by Pakistan inside Iran mark a significant escalation.

The official stance attributes these strikes to targeting Baloch terrorist camps, with images released depicting young Baloch girls allegedly involved in the operation.

Conversely, Iran’s actions in the Sabzkoh area of Eastern Balochistan three days prior resulted in the death of two Baloch girls. The intricacies of this conflict raise questions about how China may intervene, given its strategic interests in the region. China’s statement urging patience from both nations hints at its pivotal role in diffusing the tension. The broader context of the Middle East introduces the possibility that a conflict or regular war between Pakistan and Iran serves the interests of the United States.

The U.S. aims to encircle Iran, given the dynamics in Gaza involving Hamas, Hezbollah, and Houthi forces. Previous warnings of a potential nuclear attack on Iran, coupled with Iran’s use of proxy organizations to harass Israel,

underline the volatile nature of the region. The absence of immediate reconciliation between Pakistan and Iran bodes ill for the peace of the region. Potential action by the United States, Saudi Arabia,

and the United Arab Emirates against Iran could escalate the situation further, leading to the closure of the vital Strait of Hormuz. Such a scenario could disrupt oil supplies to various Asian countries, compelling the U.S. to take significant action against Iran. Looking beyond the international implications, the immediate effects of the conflict are poised to impact both nations severely, particularly Balochistan. Border trade will likely cease, causing widespread suffering and problems for the local population. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands to suffer, and the closure of Gwadar port and Chabahar port could further complicate matters.

The historical backdrop of the Baloch territory, its coastline, and demographic changes adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict. Reflecting on the historical context, the British played a role in reshaping Balochistan after World War I, making Western Balochistan part of the Iranian Empire. The subsequent 1973 Baluchistan War

and Iran’s efforts to suppress the Baloch movement by changing provincial names and settling populations in strategic locations highlight the geopolitical intricacies of the region. The echoes of past tensions, such as the 1973 movement, still resonate in the current conflict. The post-revolution era in Iran witnessed heightened actions against the Baloch people, including the establishment of organizations like Jundullah and later Jaish-ul-Adl. Allegations of Pakistani involvement in these groups and the subsequent targeting of their hideouts on the Pakistani border add another layer to the complex narrative. The recent airstrikes by Pakistan on separatist Baloch armed groups’ training camps in Iran further intensify the situation, bringing the term “Sarmchar” to the forefront and shedding light on the Balochistan issue globally. As the world contends with the unfolding events, it is crucial to recognize that the current geopolitical landscape differs significantly from the 1970s.

In this age of communication and information, nothing can remain hidden, and no problem can escape global attention. The actions and decisions made by the involved nations in the coming days will undoubtedly shape the future of this troubled region.