Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appealed to US President Joe Biden to pardon and release Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani citizen serving an 86-year sentence for allegedly attacking US personnel in Afghanistan.

In a letter dated October 13, the prime minister expressed concern for Dr Siddiqui’s “fragile mental and frail physical health” during her time in prison, noting that she is now 52 years old and has spent 16 years incarcerated in the US.

Sharif highlighted that numerous Pakistani officials have visited Dr Siddiqui and raised serious concerns regarding her treatment, with some fearing for her life.

He stated it is his “solemn duty” to ensure the welfare of his citizens and urged Biden to fulfill a similar responsibility as a head of state. “I recognize how passionately you advocate for the rights of your citizens, especially those stranded or held captive abroad,” the Prime Minister wrote.

PM Shehbaz emphasised his responsibility to intervene for the wellbeing of citizens when circumstances “are critical, as is the case with Dr Aafia Siddiqui.”

He urged Biden to release Dr Siddiqui on humanitarian grounds, stating, “I have always regarded you as a true friend of Pakistan, showing warmth and genuine concern for our people.”

PM Shehbaz requested that the US president exercise his constitutional authority to grant clemency to Dr Siddiqui and order her release, highlighting the humanitarian nature of the request.

Dr Siddiqui’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, announced that the court had approved their request for a formal petition to seek her release. Speaking to reporters outside the Islamabad High Court, Shafiq confirmed that PM Shehbaz has urged the US to release Dr Siddiqui on humanitarian grounds.

He noted, “There has been significant progress in the case following two years of efforts.” Shafiq explained that as the president approaches the end of his term, he typically handles clemency petitions, and in line with their demands, the prime minister has written to the US president.

Shafiq revealed that he has submitted an application by Clive Stafford Smith, accompanied by comprehensive data. The court instructed the Pakistani government to provide full support in securing Dr Siddiqui’s release.