In a notable development, diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Iran have been restored, as announced by the office of caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. This comes after a series of drone and missile strikes were exchanged between the two countries on militant bases within each other's territories, leading to the withdrawal of ambassadors from their respective capitals.

Following talks, both ambassadors are expected to return to their posts. Iran reported that Thursday's strikes resulted in the death of nine people in a border village on its territory, including four children. In response, Pakistan stated that an Iranian attack on Tuesday had killed two children. There has been no immediate comment from Iran on the diplomatic talks.

Pakistan expressed its willingness to collaborate with Iran on "all issues" in a statement from the foreign ministry, following a call between the foreign ministers of both countries. The statement mentioned that Foreign Minister Jilani expressed Pakistan's readiness to work with Iran based on the spirit of mutual trust and cooperation. Both nations also agreed to de-escalate the situation, and the return of ambassadors was discussed during the conversation.

The reciprocal attacks occurred amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, marked by various overlapping crises. In addition to the Pakistan-Iran clashes, Israel is engaged in conflict with the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza and facing clashes with Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria are targeting US forces, and the US and UK have conducted strikes against the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, who have been attacking shipping.

Pakistan's foreign ministry justified its strikes around the Iranian city of Saravan, citing "credible intelligence of impending large-scale terrorist activities." The ministry emphasized full respect for Iran's "sovereignty and territorial integrity." Pakistan's army reported conducting "precision strikes" with drones, rockets, and long-range missiles, targeting the Balochistan Liberation Army and the Balochistan Liberation Front. These groups have been involved in a long-standing struggle for greater autonomy in Balochistan, a remote region in southwestern Pakistan.

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