Pakistan Asserts National Security Decisions Are Sovereign Despite US Sanctions

Islamabad:Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson **Mumtaz Zahra Baloch** has firmly stated that the nation’s security decisions are made by the people of Pakistan, and that recent U.S. sanctions will not affect its defense policies. In an exclusive interview with **Geo News**, Baloch emphasized that despite facing various sanctions in the past, Pakistan has always focused on safeguarding its national security.

Baloch criticized the **U.S. sanctions** on Pakistan’s **missile program**, calling them “unnecessary and unjust.” She clarified that Pakistan has never sought relations with the U.S. that would lead to a war scenario requiring missile capabilities.

Regarding the regional security situation, Baloch pointed out that it was **India** that initiated the missile and nuclear arms race in South Asia. She urged global powers to address India’s aggressive defense posture rather than imposing unilateral restrictions on Pakistan.

**Pakistan’s Sovereign Defense Decisions**
Baloch reaffirmed that **Pakistan’s security** will always remain in the hands of its own people and government, regardless of external pressures or sanctions. The spokesperson also responded to concerns raised by the **European Union** regarding military tribunals, stating that Pakistan’s **Constitution** and judicial system are capable of addressing internal matters independently.

**U.S. Sanctions on Pakistani Entities**
Recently, the U.S. imposed sanctions on **four Pakistani entities** allegedly involved in advancing Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. The sanctioned organizations include **Islamabad’s National Development Complex** and three Karachi-based firms: **Akhtar & Sons, Affiliates International**, and **Rokside Enterprises**.

The U.S. National Security Advisor had previously warned that Pakistan’s missile systems, which are designed to target both regional and global adversaries, including **the United States**, are of significant concern.

In response, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry made it clear that such sanctions will not deter the country’s ongoing defense efforts, and the nation’s strategic decisions will always prioritize its sovereignty and security interests.

**Conclusion**
The spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan’s defense policies will continue to be shaped by national interests, and external sanctions will have no bearing on the country’s commitment to protecting its sovereignty and security.