Iranian FM in Pakistan to Pursue Fate of Abducted Forces

Local Editor

Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif landed in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad to pursue the fate of the 12 Iranian forces who were abducted by Pakistan-based terrorists near the two countries' joint border earlier in October.

Upon arrival in the Pakistani capital early Wednesday, Zarif said, “There is need for constant negotiation with Pakistani officials so that the abductees’ return to their homeland can be secured.”

Pakistani officials promised that their government would exert every effort to secure the release of the kidnapped Iranians, he added.

“Iran and Pakistan are two very good neighbors, and Tehran enjoys good relations with Islamabad. We consult with them on all matters,” Zarif noted.

Members of the so-called Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group abducted 12 Iranian forces in the southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan, and spirited them away into neighboring Pakistan.

The group later posted two photos of the abductees on its social media channel.

Over the past few weeks, bilateral talks have been underway on the fate of the captives. Tehran has offered to launch joint operations with Islamabad to free the abductees.

Iranian border guards have repeatedly come under attack by terror outfits active on Pakistani soil.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team