Baloch political activist Mir Yar Baloch has called for the creation of an independent Balochistan, arguing that such a development would significantly alter the geopolitical balance in the region and reduce the influence of both Pakistan and Iran.
In a statement issued on March 14, the activist alleged that Islamabad and Tehran have jointly maintained control over Balochistan to exploit its vast natural resources and strategic maritime access. He claimed the region possesses natural wealth worth trillions of dollars and hosts key deep-sea ports, including Gwadar and Chabahar, which he said are central to regional trade and security dynamics.
According to Baloch, the alliance between Pakistan and Iran dates back decades. He alleged that during the 1970s the former Iranian monarchy supported Pakistan militarily during operations against Baloch insurgents, including providing aircraft and financial assistance. These actions, he claimed, resulted in large-scale civilian casualties in Baloch areas.
Baloch also asserted that the people of Balochistan and neighboring Afghanistan share historical grievances related to colonial-era boundaries such as the Durand Line, drawn in 1893 by the British. He argued that both regions have faced security challenges and political tensions linked to that border.
Looking ahead, Baloch said that an independent Balochistan would seek closer cooperation with Afghanistan and invite international partners, including India and Israel, to invest in infrastructure and maritime trade routes through the region’s ports.
He also suggested that new economic corridors across the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Gulf could transform the region into a hub for trade and cooperation if Balochistan were self-governed.
The remarks reflect long-standing tensions surrounding Balochistan, a resource-rich region divided mainly between Pakistan and Iran, where separatist movements and geopolitical rivalries continue to shape the political landscape.
