Pakistan has strongly criticized the new U.S. sanctions imposed on its ballistic missile program, labeling them as discriminatory and a threat to regional peace and security. The Foreign Ministry of Pakistan issued a statement expressing concerns over the implications of the sanctions on the strategic stability of the region and beyond. The statement also questioned the basis of the U.S. allegations against the targeted businesses, citing a lack of evidence to support claims of weapons proliferation.
The sanctions, which freeze any U.S. property belonging to the designated entities and prohibit Americans from engaging in business with them, have targeted several Pakistani businesses. Among the sanctioned entities are the National Development Complex in Islamabad, accused of acquiring items for Pakistan's long-range ballistic missile program, including the SHAHEEN series of ballistic missiles. Other entities facing sanctions include Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprise.
The U.S. State Department defended its actions, emphasizing its concerns over weapons proliferation and pledging to continue engaging with Pakistan on the issue. However, critics have labeled the sanctions as shortsighted and destabilizing, particularly in the context of South Asian regional strategic dynamics.
Pakistan's nuclear and missile program is widely viewed as a response to perceived threats from its neighbor, India. The two countries have a history of conflict, having fought two of their three wars over the disputed region of Kashmir since gaining independence from Britain in 1947. Both nations regularly conduct tests of short, medium, and long-range missiles, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the region.
