RAWALPINDI: In a dramatic operation this morning [Feb 10], a party of Pakistan Government officials, accompanied by men of the Security Police, raided the Iraqi Embassy in Islamabad, and recovered a large stock of arms and ammunition and guerrilla -warfare equipment — believed to be for distribution to “subversive elements” in Pakistan.

Following the extra-ordinary step, taken “in the over-riding interests of State security”, the Government of Pakistan declared the Iraqi Ambassador and the Attache as persona non-grata. They also announced their decision to recall the Pakistan Ambassador in Iraq immediately, while preparing to lodge a strong protest with the Iraqi Government. In a statement in the evening, the Government of Pakistan expressed shock over the whole thing, and accused the Government of Iraq of being “a party in a conspiracy with elements within and outside the country which seek to subvert the security and tranquillity of Pakistan”.

While the crates of arms and ammunition recovered from the Embassy — in the presence of over 20 foreign and Pakistani newsmen — were still being opened and searched, another consignment arrived by the evening flight of the PIA from Karachi. — Special Representative

Published in Dawn, February 11th, 2023

Opinion

Editorial

System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....
Time to deliver
Updated 11 Nov, 2024

Time to deliver

Pakistan must display a serious commitment to climate change adaptation and mitigation at home.
Smaller government
11 Nov, 2024

Smaller government

THE IMF bailout programme has put the government under pressure to curtail its spending, especially current...
Unsafe inheritance
11 Nov, 2024

Unsafe inheritance

DESPITE regulations, the troubling practice of robbing women of their rightful inheritance — the culprits are ...