Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Criticizes U.S. Sanctions on Pakistani Firms as Unjustified

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday, strongly condemned the recent sanctions imposed by the United States on four Pakistani firms alleged to be involved in the country’s ballistic missile program. The premier asserted that these actions lacked any justification.

“The sanctions placed on our National Development Complex and other entities have no basis,” stated Sharif. He reiterated Pakistan’s position on its nuclear program, emphasizing, “Pakistan has absolutely no intention of developing an aggressive nuclear arsenal. Our nuclear capabilities are solely for national defense—nothing more.”

U.S. Sanctions and Pakistan’s Response

Last week, the U.S. announced additional sanctions related to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, targeting four entities accused of contributing to the proliferation and delivery of such weapons. The move drew sharp criticism from Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO), which labeled the sanctions as “biased” and a threat to “regional and international peace.”

Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer further alleged that Pakistan was developing long-range ballistic missile capabilities capable of striking targets “well beyond South Asia, including in the United States.”

In response, the FO dismissed Finer’s claims as “unfounded” and lacking historical or rational context. “These allegations are devoid of sense and fail to acknowledge Pakistan’s responsible approach to its nuclear program,” the FO stated.

Caution from the Pentagon

Contrasting Finer’s pointed remarks, Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder struck a more measured tone. When questioned about the sanctions, Ryder refrained from direct criticism, emphasizing the value of Pakistan as a regional partner. “The United States has worked closely with Pakistan on counterterrorism efforts in the past and continues to recognize its importance in the region,” he remarked.

A Call for Balance in Regional Dynamics

Prime Minister Sharif’s comments underline Pakistan’s commitment to using its nuclear program strictly for defensive purposes, amidst increasing scrutiny from the international community. The government continues to urge its global partners to adopt a balanced approach, highlighting Pakistan’s responsible conduct and the need for mutual cooperation in fostering regional stability.

The fallout from these sanctions will likely test the resilience of U.S.-Pakistan relations, which have historically navigated periods of cooperation and tension. As both nations engage in diplomacy, the evolving situation demands careful attention to the broader implications for regional and global peace.