The United States disclosed on Wednesday that it is levying additional sanctions on four entities associated with Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. These sanctions are part of ongoing U.S. efforts to curb activities that may contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, officials have taken these measures in response to ongoing concerns over Pakistan’s efforts to develop long-range missiles. They implemented sanctions under Executive Order 13382, which targets entities involved in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
The sanctions specifically target entities, including Pakistan’s National Development Complex (NDC), a key player in the country’s ballistic missile program. The NDC has actively pursued items to advance Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile capabilities. Alongside the NDC, the U.S. has sanctioned Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise. These organizations have provided equipment and items applicable to missile technology, supporting general and long-range capabilities within Pakistan’s missile program.
U.S. Announces Additional Sanctions on Entities Contributing to Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program
In light of the continuing proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development, the United States is designating four entities for sanctions pursuant to Executive… pic.twitter.com/ec1hAC5YjM
— ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2024These sanctions are part of a broader strategy following similar actions earlier in the year. Previously, the U.S. sanctioned five entities and one individual for their roles in expanding ballistic missile capabilities and managing missile equipment and technology transfers to Pakistan. Additionally, in October 2023, the U.S. sanctioned three Chinese companies for supplying missile-related materials to Pakistan.
US tries to hit Pakistan's nuclear delivery systems. Announces sanctions on four entities. The real game is now coming to the fore. Now you understand what the fuss and campaign is all about. pic.twitter.com/EYj5dhX7MH
— Syed Talat Hussain (@TalatHussain12) December 18, 2024Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesperson, emphasized notable examples of collaboration between sanctioned entities and Pakistani companies. He mentioned that the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry partnered with Pakistan to obtain crucial equipment for testing rocket motors utilized in Pakistan’s Shaheen-3 and Ababeel missile systems and possibly in larger systems.
Read: Pakistan Navy Tests New Ship-Launched Ballistic Missile
The sanctions reflect the United States’ continued commitment to preventing the spread of technologies that could lead to further proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. The U.S. aims to enforce international norms and maintain global security by targeting entities contributing to such activities.
