Islamabad, March 7, 2025: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday questioned the federal government over its recent extradition of an alleged Daesh commander, Mohammad Sharifullah, to the United States, despite claims that no prisoner exchange agreement exists between the two countries.
The hearing, which centered on Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s repatriation, was attended by Additional Attorney General (AAG), petitioner Dr Fouzia Siddiqui, and Dr Aafia’s American lawyer, who participated via video link.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan raised concerns over the government’s contradictory stance, stating:
“You claim there is no prisoner exchange treaty with the U.S., yet you handed over an individual to them without any formal agreement. You were even allowed to provide an in-camera briefing regarding Dr Shakil Afridi’s extradition.”
The judge criticized the government’s response, questioning its intent behind seeking the dismissal of Dr Aafia’s petition:
“Now the government wants to dispose of Aafia Siddiqui’s case. AAG, are you saying you want to get rid of this matter?”
He further noted that the prime minister had written the required letter, and the necessary visa had been provided for Dr Aafia’s case. However, the government failed to present a satisfactory update.
“The world will know what the Government of Pakistan has done. What great achievement have you made? The Attorney General’s Office was instructed to give recommendations and update the court, yet now you are asking for the case to be dismissed,” Justice Khan remarked.
Meanwhile, the federal government submitted a miscellaneous application seeking the immediate disposal of Dr Aafia’s release petition. The court issued a notice to the petitioner and adjourned the hearing until March 14.
Sharifullah Handed Over to U.S. Amid Controversy
It is noteworthy that Pakistan handed over Mohammad Sharifullah to the U.S. just two days ago. He was arrested near the Pak-Afghan border and is accused of orchestrating the August 2021 Kabul Abbey Gate attack, which killed 13 American soldiers and nearly 170 Afghan civilians.
Meanwhile, Dr Aafia Siddiqui continues to serve an 87-year sentence in a U.S. prison, where she has allegedly endured severe mistreatment and inhumane conditions.
