Ishaq Dar Clarifies Misinterpreted Remarks on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui Case

On July 27, 2025, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar clarified that his remarks on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case, made during an Atlantic Council event in Washington, were misinterpreted. Dar emphasised Pakistan’s unwavering support for Siddiqui’s release, while respecting the judicial process.

Dar stated on X: “My reference to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case during a question about Imran Khan’s legal matters was taken out of context.” Addressing a query on PTI founder Imran Khan’s legal proceedings, Dar compared them to Siddiqui’s U.S. incarceration, noting: “Every country’s judicial system must be respected.” He reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance: “PML-N governments have consistently extended full diplomatic and legal support for Dr. Aafia’s release and will continue until her repatriation.”

میریے گزشتہ روز اٹلانٹک کونسل تھنک ٹینک واشنگٹن میں عمران خان کے کیس کے بارے سوال کے جواب میں ڈاکٹر عافیہ صدیقی کے کیس کے حوالے کو سیاق و سباق سے ہٹ کر لیا جا رہا ہے. ن لیگ کی حکومتوں کے ادوار میں ہم ہمیشہ ڈاکٹر عافیہ صدیقی کی رہائی کے لئیے تمام تر سفارتی اور عدالتی معاونت…

— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) July 26, 2025

Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist, was convicted in 2010 by a New York federal court for attempted murder and assault during a 2008 incident in Afghanistan, receiving an 86-year sentence. She denies the charges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrote to former U.S. President Joe Biden seeking clemency, without success. On July 26, Sharif assured Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, Aafia’s sister, of ongoing support, per a PM Office statement.

Sharif formed a committee, led by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, to advance Siddiqui’s case, ensuring diplomatic and legal aid. Dar noted: “Pakistan respects the U.S. judicial process, just as we expect others to respect ours.”

Siddiqui’s case remains a sensitive issue, with 60% of Pakistanis following it online, per Pew Research, amplifying calls for her release. Dar’s clarification reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release, while respecting the judicial process. The government’s efforts continue to drive diplomatic progress.