Islamabad High Court issues written order on Dr. Aafia's release petition

Islamabad High Court issues order on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case; hearing set for December 13.

The Islamabad High Court has issued a written order regarding Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s health, release, and repatriation to Pakistan, Express News reported.

The order pertains to a petition filed by Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui concerning her sister, Dr. Aafia's well-being and return from the United States.

The order, issued by Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan, stated that the Prime Minister had approved the summary for the expenses of a delegation visiting the US, which was seen as a positive development by the court.

The representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the court that all efforts were being made regarding the official visas for the delegation.

According to the order, the passports of Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui and Dr. Iqbal Siddiqui were submitted for visa processing last Friday.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is hopeful that the visas will be granted soon. The Ministry has been in continuous contact with the US Consulate for this purpose.

The order also mentioned that the passports of Dr. Fouzia and Dr. Iqbal would not be seized. Additionally, the US lawyer, Mr. Smith, had made a new statement seeking logistical and other assistance for the delegation’s visit.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated that the Pakistani embassy in the US should be able to announce the visit of several US Senators.

Further, the order mentioned that Mr. Smith’s firm had conducted lobbying efforts and would continue pushing the request forward. The next hearing of the case is scheduled for December 13.

How did Dr. Aafia Siddiqui end up in Texas?

Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's case began in 2003 after the capture of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed (KSM), Al-Qaeda’s 9/11 mastermind. Siddiqui, reportedly married to KSM’s nephew, disappeared with her children in Karachi, later earning the title “Lady Al-Qaeda” due to alleged links with Al-Qaeda.

In 2008, she was arrested in Afghanistan, allegedly carrying sodium cyanide and plans for attacks on US targets. During interrogation, Siddiqui reportedly wrestled hold of a US soldier's rifle and attempted to shoot US agents, shouting “Death to America.” She was wounded in the process and later showed signs of severe mistreatment.

Siddiqui's son was released in Afghanistan, while her other two children’s whereabouts remain unknown. In 2010, she was convicted of attempted murder in the US and sentenced to 86 years, though she was never charged with direct ties to terrorism.