Islamabad, February 21, 2025: The federal government informed the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Friday that a proposed prisoner exchange between Dr. Aafia Siddiqui and Shakeel Afridi is not workable.
During a hearing on a petition seeking Dr. Siddiqui’s release from a U.S. prison, IHC Judge Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan presided over the proceedings. Additional Attorney General (AAG) Manzoor Iqbal Dogar stated that the idea of swapping Afridi for Siddiqui’s freedom was not feasible.
The proposal was originally put forward by Dr. Siddiqui’s counsel, Clive Smith, as part of efforts to negotiate her return to Pakistan.
Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan expressed surprise at the government’s stance, noting that it seemed to withdraw support for Siddiqui’s petition in the U.S. courts. The court directed the law officer to consult with the government and address any objections before the next hearing, scheduled for Friday next week.
Dogar emphasized that both Aafia Siddiqui and Shakeel Afridi are Pakistani nationals and pointed out that Pakistan has no prisoner exchange agreement with the U.S.
During the hearing, the judge inquired about Shakeel Afridi’s significance to the U.S. and requested an update on his case.
Court assistant Zainab Janjua informed the court that Afridi has been convicted, and his appeal remains pending in the Peshawar High Court (PHC). Siddiqui’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, further noted that Afridi faces charges related to espionage and providing assistance to foreign agencies.
Dogar also revealed that a formal request regarding Dr. Siddiqui’s release had been submitted on February 19. However, former U.S. President Joe Biden rejected the request without issuing an official response.
Justice Khan expressed concern over the lack of acknowledgment from the White House, questioning the diplomatic implications of sending a letter without receiving a formal reply.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui is currently serving an 86-year prison sentence in the United States after being convicted in 2010 by a New York federal court on charges of attempted murder and other offenses.
The IHC has adjourned the hearing until next Friday.
