Pakistani Fighter Jets Escort Iranian Delegation Amid Fears of Israeli Strike: Report
Islamabad: Pakistani fighter jets reportedly escorted an Iranian delegation back to Iran under tight security following recent talks in Islamabad, amid fears of a potential Israeli strike, according to a report by Reuters.
The report states that after inconclusive peace negotiations with the United States last week, Iranian officials expressed concerns that their aircraft could be targeted during the return journey.
Citing sources, Reuters said the operation involved nearly two dozen aircraft from the Pakistan Air Force, including fighter jets and Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft, which provided aerial protection to the delegation from Islamabad to Iranian airspace.
Sources indicated that similar security arrangements could be offered in the future if requested by Iranian officials. Otherwise, Pakistani authorities would continue to ensure safe passage within their own airspace.
The report added that although the Iranian delegation did not formally request security, they did not dismiss the possibility of a threat, prompting Pakistan to take precautionary measures.
The mission was described as a large-scale operation, with aircraft fully prepared to counter any potential threat during the escort.
According to the report, Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C fighter jets were also part of the operation.
A regional diplomat cited in the report said the Iranian aircraft did not land in Tehran, and its exact landing location remains unclear.
