|
|
On Sunday, Iran closed its border with Pakistan at Taftan. The decision
follows a suicide bombing last week in Zahedan, which killed 25 people and left
over 125 injured. The Iranian government’s decision has led to the suspension of
trade in the region, causing tribes on both sides of the border to suffer food
shortages.
What are the political implications of Iran’s decision to close its border?
Is this the first step towards the regional isolation of Pakistan owing to the
possibility of militancy spreading beyond its borders? Are regional militant
groups trying to stoke sectarian tensions (Jundullah claimed the Zahedan
bombing)? Or is Pakistan getting caught up in US-Iran relations? Iran has
implied that ‘interfering powers’ be held responsible for the suicide bombing
and analysts are suggesting that Iran’s decision is a response to the diplomatic
and military connections between Pakistan and America in the context of the war
against terror. |
|
|
