Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi visited Pakistan for three days from 22nd to 25th April 2024. This visit occurred against the backdrop of significant developments in the Middle East, commencing with Israel's assault on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, resulting in casualties, including two high-ranking Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commanders. In retaliation, Iran launched a missile and drone strike on Israel, intercepting most of the projectiles mid-air before they reached Israeli territory. Moreover, tensions escalated earlier in January this year, when Iran targeted alleged terrorist hideouts within Pakistan's borders, prompting a reciprocal response from Pakistan within Iran's territory.
According to diplomatic sources, President Raisi's visit was planned well in advance of these events, with a focus on enhancing bilateral trade, particularly regarding the long-awaited gas pipeline between the two nations. Initially agreed upon in 2008, the pipeline's progress has been hindered by US sanctions on Iran, prohibiting trade relations with the country. While Iran has completed its portion of the pipeline at a cost of $2 billion, Pakistan is yet to construct the remaining 80 km segment. Failure to do so may incur a penalty of nearly $18 billion for Pakistan.
The US cautioned Pakistan against furthering this project, as reported by Al Jazeera quoting White House spokesman Vedant Patel, who stated, "We advise anyone considering business deals with Iran to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions. But ultimately, the government of Pakistan can speak to their own foreign policy pursuits." In essence, Pakistan is free to make its own decisions, albeit with full knowledge of the potential consequences – you are free to do as you please, but you better not!
Drone Diplomacy:........