The US State Department has announced additional sanctions aimed at Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. These sanctions focus on four entities accused of contributing to the proliferation or delivery of such weapons.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, the US will “continue to take action against nuclear proliferation and related procurement activities.” This decision, the State Department emphasized, stems from concerns over the threat posed by Pakistan’s long-range missile development.
Entities Designated for Sanctions
The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order (EO) 13382, which targets weapons of mass destruction and their delivery mechanisms. The entities include:
- Pakistan’s National Development Complex: Key to the country’s ballistic missile program.
- Affiliates International: Involved in missile program support.
- Akhtar & Sons Private Limited: A provider of critical equipment.
- Rockside Enterprises: Supplies components for long-range missiles.
The State Department clarified that these entities engage in activities that “materially contribute to or threaten the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery.”
China’s Role Under Scrutiny
This is not the first time the US has acted against entities tied to Pakistan’s missile program. In September, sanctions were imposed on China’s Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry for collaborating with Pakistan on rocket motor testing for the Shaheen III and Ababeel missile systems.
Further sanctions were applied in October 2023 against three Chinese companies accused of supplying missile-related goods to Pakistan.
US Commitment to Non-Proliferation
The US continues to prioritize actions against nuclear proliferation, reiterating its stance through these sanctions. This highlights a broader effort to curb the development and spread of missile-related technologies in the region.
