The Biden administration has raised concerns about Pakistan’s development of long-range ballistic missiles, warning that the program could eventually create a capability to strike the United States. Officials released intelligence about the program and imposed sanctions on entities linked to it, citing failed diplomatic efforts to address the issue.
Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer described the program as an “emerging threat” to the U.S., pointing to Pakistan’s work on advanced missile systems and testing equipment for larger rocket motors.
Finer emphasized that the list of countries with nuclear weapons and long-range missile capabilities targeting the U.S. is limited and typically adversarial, making Pakistan’s actions particularly worrisome.
The U.S. sanctioned Pakistan’s state-owned National Development Complex, which oversees missile development, including the Shaheen ballistic missile program. The State Department also imposed sanctions on three Karachi-based companies and Chinese entities supporting Pakistan’s missile efforts.
Pakistan’s government dismissed the U.S. claims, calling them unfounded and designed to hinder its ability to defend against India. Analysts suggest the missile program may aim to deter U.S. involvement in potential conflicts with India or complicate efforts to disarm Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal.
Islamabad’s nuclear weapons program has historically focused on countering India, with which it has fought three wars.
Officials estimate Pakistan’s ability to develop missiles capable of reaching the U.S. could take a decade. However, the White House stressed the urgency of addressing the issue now to prevent further progress.
Relations between the U.S. and Pakistan have strained in recent years, partly due to Washington’s closer ties with India and Islamabad’s growing alignment with China.
