A Pakistani delegation, including members of parliament and a psychiatrist, visited Dr. Aafia Siddiqui in her high-security Texas prison.
The visit, which lasted for nearly three hours, was conducted following instructions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
During the meeting, Dr. Aafia shared the challenges she faces in prison and expressed hope for justice. The delegation’s visit is part of Pakistan’s continued efforts to secure her release.
Pakistan has repeatedly called on the United States to reconsider her case, advocating for her release on humanitarian grounds.
In addition to meeting Dr. Aafia, the delegation held discussions with key US officials, including members of Congress and State Department representatives, urging them to take action.
They also appealed directly to President Joe Biden, asking for Dr. Aafia’s release before the end of his presidential term on January 20, 2025.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui was convicted in 2010 for attempting to kill US personnel while in custody in Afghanistan.
She was sentenced to 86 years in prison and is currently incarcerated in the Federal Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas.
The Pakistani delegation remains hopeful that US authorities will respond positively to their requests and allow Dr. Aafia’s release in the near future.
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.
