The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has sought an explanation for the lack of response to a letter written by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to US President Joe Biden, seeking clemency for Dr Aafia Siddiqui, who is currently imprisoned in the United States.
Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan issued a written order of a hearing on a petition seeking Dr. Siddiqui’s release and repatriation.
"Why did the White House not consider it appropriate to respond to the prime minister of Pakistan's letter?" the court sought a response from the Foreign Ministry, seeking clarification on the lack of response to the PM's letter.
The order stated that the court was informed by the Foreign Ministry that a formal letter was sent to the US president, appealing for clemency for Dr Siddiqui, but no response was received. A reminder letter was also sent, which similarly went unanswered, it added.
It further stated that Dr Siddiqui's American lawyer called the lack of response a breach of diplomatic etiquette. The court directed the Foreign Ministry to seek an explanation from the US ambassador in Pakistan regarding the apparent disregard for diplomatic norms, the order said.
