U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor Jonathan Finer has stated that Pakistan is developing missiles capable of targeting the United States, beyond South Asia.
According to ARY News, Jonathan Finer remarked that Pakistan’s missile preparations raise questions about its intentions, and it is difficult to view these actions as anything other than an emerging threat.
On the other hand, U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized that the U.S. is committed to maintaining the global nonproliferation regime. He stated that Pakistan is an important partner for the U.S., and the longstanding policy of denying support to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program remains unchanged.
He further noted that the State Department will continue to use sanctions and other tools for national security purposes, and will maintain discussions with the Pakistani government on these issues.
Vedant Patel also added that the sanctions will not impact other areas of U.S.-Pakistan relations, as they are based on U.S. concerns regarding the ballistic missile program.