U.S. Sanctions Four Entities Linked to Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program

WASHINGTON DC: The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on four entities connected to Pakistan’s ballistic missile development, citing concerns over the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and the risks posed by the nation’s expanding missile capabilities.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury is designating the following entities under Executive Order 13382, which targets WMD proliferators and their delivery systems: Pakistan’s National Development Complex, Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise.

According to the press release, the National Development Complex, a key organization responsible for Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, is accused of attempting to acquire materials critical to advancing the country’s long-range missile capabilities. Affiliates International, Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, and Rockside Enterprise have been implicated in supplying equipment and missile-related items to Pakistan’s missile program, including technologies relevant to its long-range missiles.

The statement further explained that these sanctions have been issued due to their involvement in activities that materially contribute to, or pose a significant risk of contributing to, the proliferation of WMDs or their delivery systems, including missiles capable of carrying such weapons. The designation targets efforts related to the manufacturing, acquisition, possession, development, transportation, transfer, or use of such technology.

The U.S. government reaffirmed its commitment to countering proliferation activities, highlighting its ongoing efforts to prevent the spread of dangerous technologies that could destabilise regional security. The sanctions are part of a broader strategy to address concerns about Pakistan’s missile development and its potential impact on global security.