Pakistan has strongly criticized the U.S. decision to impose sanctions on four entities allegedly linked to its ballistic missile program, describing the move as “discriminatory” and detrimental to regional peace and stability. The sanctions, issued under Executive Order 13382, target entities accused of supporting weapons of mass destruction by freezing their U.S.-based assets and prohibiting American transactions with them.
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan emphasized that its ballistic missile program is a sovereign right aimed at ensuring national defense. The program, it claimed, adheres to international norms and has no intent for proliferation. The ministry described the sanctioned entities as operating within legal frameworks and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to dialogue and transparency in addressing international concerns.
The ministry also criticized the sanctions as biased, warning they could exacerbate regional military asymmetries and undermine strategic stability in South Asia. Analysts have highlighted that the sanctions may further strain U.S.-Pakistan relations, which have faced turbulence in recent years.
Pakistan has urged the U.S. to adopt a fair and equitable approach, questioning the lack of action on India’s missile development and nuclear expansion. It also noted that double standards in military technology licensing compromise global non-proliferation regimes and regional security.
The move adds tension to an already volatile region, with implications for both Pakistan’s defense strategy and broader South Asian stability.
Also See: US Imposes More Sanctions Over Pakistan’s Missile Program
