Enhancing Regional Cooperation to Combat Terrorism on…

Iran has faced extensive losses due to terrorism, with significant increases in attacks and casualties over the last year. Similarly, Pakistan grapples with heightened terrorist activities from groups like TTP. An expert emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation and intelligence sharing to address these critical security challenges collectively.

Recent data indicates that Iran has suffered over 23,000 casualties from terrorism since the Islamic Revolution, positioning it among the world’s most affected nations. Terrorism has surged significantly in Iran’s southeastern region, particularly in Sistan and Baluchestan province, where attacks have risen by 115% and casualties increased by 200% over the past year. Approximately 68% of terrorist acts in Iran have occurred in this province.

In conversation with Muhammad Murtaza, Project Manager at Pakistan Institute for Peace Studies, the interviewer addressed the escalation of terrorism in both Iran and Pakistan. Pakistan has also faced considerable security challenges, especially following the Taliban’s resurgence in Afghanistan. This context has contributed to the increase in terrorism, with groups such as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) being particularly active.

Terrorist groups operating in the region, such as TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), have evolved their tactics over time, shifting from simpler hit-and-run operations to more calculated attacks. The year 2024 saw 95% of attacks occurring in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with casualties reaching 852, a 23% rise compared to the previous year. The BLA’s increasing use of suicide tactics highlights a disturbing collaboration with TTP.

The financing of these terrorist organizations is complex, with multiple income sources such as charities, remittances, and even cryptocurrencies complicating direct tracing. Both criminal and terrorist networks are linked, creating a tough environment for counter-terrorism efforts. Despite previous operations against terrorism, attacks have persisted, underscoring the challenges authorities face.

Obstacles to Iran-Pakistan cooperation in combating border terrorism remain, particularly concerning differing security priorities. While Pakistan concentrates on internal threats from groups like TTP and ISIS-Khorasan, intelligence sharing and coordinated responses are essential for facing shared threats effectively.

Despite a security agreement signed in 2014, the collaboration between Iran and Pakistan requires more than just diplomatic gestures; it necessitates actionable strategies and cooperation on the ground. Recent violent incidents, where both nations conducted operations against terrorists across their borders, have revealed the urgent need for joint action and clarity regarding mutual threats.

Extra-regional influences, such as those from the United States, Saudi Arabia, and India, further complicate the dynamics along the Iran-Pakistan border. Pakistan’s relations with Riyadh and Washington, and Iran’s ties with Delhi contribute to mutual distrust. Past foreign policy missteps must serve as lessons to cultivate regional cooperation moving forward.

While recent military visits signal potential for bilateral cooperation, it is crucial for Iran and Pakistan to focus on confidence-building measures and collaborative efforts across political, economic, and cultural domains. Only through increased dialogue and trust can both nations address terrorism effectively and ensure regional stability.

The interview highlights the pressing nature of security challenges posed by terrorism along the Iran-Pakistan border. Both countries need to enhance cooperation in combating shared threats, driven by mutual intelligence sharing and concerted joint efforts. External influences complicate these relationships, necessitating a focus on regional solidarity to foster peace and stability.

Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com