Thu Dec 19 20:45:52 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Condemns New US Sanctions, Warns of Regional Instability

**ISLAMABAD** – Pakistan has strongly condemned new US sanctions targeting its ballistic missile program, warning that the measures pose a serious threat to regional stability and accusing the US of applying double standards. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on Thursday denouncing the sanctions as “discriminatory” and asserting that they are based on unsubstantiated allegations.

The sanctions, which freeze US assets belonging to four Pakistani entities – the National Development Complex, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprise – and prohibit US businesses from dealing with them, were imposed after the US State Department accused the companies of supporting Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program, including the Shaheen series.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry rejected the US claims, arguing that previous sanctions were also based on “mere doubts and suspicion without any evidence.” They further criticized the US for granting waivers on advanced military technology to other countries while simultaneously sanctioning Pakistan.

The White House subsequently doubled down on its concerns. Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer stated that Pakistan’s development of long-range ballistic missiles presents a growing threat to the US, potentially enabling strikes on targets beyond South Asia. Finer expressed skepticism over Pakistan’s stated intentions regarding its missile program.

Pakistan, a declared nuclear power since 1998, engages in regular missile testing alongside its regional rival, India. The ongoing tensions and the latest sanctions raise concerns about escalating regional instability and the potential for further international repercussions.

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