Taftan Attack: Iran Closes Border With Pakistan

Following the deadly incident of sectarian violence in Taftan area in Balochistan on Sunday night, Iran has closed its border with Pakistan for an indefinite period. Deputy Commissioner Chagai Saifullah Khetran told media today that the Iranian officials have closed Zero-Point gate on Pak-Iran border and all the activities pertaining to travelling and trade have been suspended. At least 28 Shia pilgrims returning from Iran were killed and 25 others injured when armed militants attacked their convoy in Taftan area last night. Eight buses carrying Shia pilgrims stopped at a hotel when four masked assailants, equipped with hand-grenades and guns, opened fire on the pilgrims. The assailants later rushed into the hotel and threw hand-grenades, killing several other pilgrims and leaving the hotel building badly damaged. Four assailants were also killed in counterattack of Levies paramilitary troops and police. Earlier this morning, home minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti had confirmed the killing of 23 pilgrims but it rose to 28 after five more persons succumbed to their wounds in the hospital. Several injured are still said to be in critical condition and causality toll is likely to climb further. - See more at: http://www.pakistantribune.com.pk/15885/taftan-attack-iran-closes-border-pakistan.html#sthash.kKYNdnlQ.dpuf