High court in Pakistan presses for diplomatic efforts in Dr. Aafia Siddiqui case
IHC told Pakistan prime minister's letter to U.S. President Joe Biden seeking her freedom has gone unanswered

During a hearing at the Islamabad High Court on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release and repatriation, it was disclosed that Pakistan prime minister's letter to U.S. President Joe Biden seeking her freedom has gone unanswered.
Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan presided over the hearing, where representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Additional Attorney General, and the petitioner’s legal team participated. Dr. Aafia’s sister, Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui, attended via video link.
Dr. Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist, is serving an 86-year sentence in the U.S. after being convicted in 2010 for attempting to attack U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan. Her case has sparked significant controversy, with many in Pakistan calling her a victim of injustice and advocating for her release.
Court questions diplomatic follow-up
Justice Ijaz expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of follow-up by Pakistan’s diplomatic mission in the United States.
“When a country’s chief executive writes to another’s, a response is expected,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of diplomatic engagement.
The court questioned why the Pakistani ambassador had not pursued the matter more effectively, particularly with the Biden administration.
Justice Ijaz acknowledged the U.S.’s sovereign right to reject visas, including those for Pakistani officials, but emphasized that such matters must still be pursued at the diplomatic level. He urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to adopt a more sustained and proactive approach.
Ambassador’s role and delegation delays
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the court that a delegation had been arranged to meet Dr. Aafia, but it arrived late. Justice Ijaz asked, “Where was your ambassador during this delay? Such matters are always managed at the ambassadorial level.” He stressed the need for active involvement by Pakistani officials in addressing the issue.
Dr. Fauzia Siddiqui expressed her disappointment, stating that letters between heads of state usually elicit responses. She urged the government to ensure a more vigorous diplomatic effort for her sister’s release.
Court’s directives
The court has asked for submission of a detailed report on efforts made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since Dr. Aafia’s clemency appeal and details of visits by the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, particularly those related to Dr. Aafia’s case.
The court also sought a report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the declaration of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s American lawyer and instructed the ministry to handle the matters at the diplomatic level.
While the Additional Attorney General requested the court to withdraw the directive concerning the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister’s visits, the court declined.
The court adjourned the case until January 13, 2024, directing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prioritize diplomatic solutions and ensure meaningful progress.
'Inefficient efforts'
At a hearing last week, the IHC heard sharp criticism from Clive Smith, the U.S.-based lawyer representing Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, over delays and inefficiencies in Pakistan’s efforts to secure her release and repatriation.
Smith, speaking via video link, said a Pakistani delegation - included Senator Bushra Anjum Butt and Senator Talha - sent to the U.S. for an eight-day mission arrived five days late and accomplished little during their visit.
According to Smith, the Pakistani ambassador did not arrange any meetings related to the case.
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