THE escalation of conflict in the Middle East, triggered by coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February 2026, has created widespread regional uncertainty.

As Iran faces internal unrest alongside external military pressures, the consequences extend to neighboring Pakistan—particularly to Balochistan province, which hosts key components of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This flagship Belt and Road Initiative project, which includes Gwadar Port, energy infrastructure and transport networks, stands as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic aspirations. Instability in Iran now poses direct risks to CPEC’s security, progress and long-term viability, underscoring the need for urgent de-escalation, enhanced bilateral cooperation focused protection of these strategic assets.

Balochistan shares a 900-kilometer border with Iran’s Sistan-Balochistan province, linked by deep ethnic, cultural and historical ties. Prolonged turmoil in Iran could weaken central control in border areas, potentially creating ungoverned spaces that embolden cross-border militant activities. Groups such as the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and others have historically exploited porous frontiers for operations. Recent analyses indicate that any vacuum in Iranian border governance might serve as a staging ground for intensified insurgent actions inside Pakistan, diverting security resources and complicating efforts to safeguard CPEC routes and installations.

CPEC’s........

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