Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court has sought a response from the federal government by February 21 regarding the case concerning Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's release and repatriation. During the hearing, the court inquired about the government's position on the potential exchange of Shakil Afridi with the United States to secure Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's return.

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan presided over the hearing on a miscellaneous petition related to Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's release from U.S. custody and her return to Pakistan. Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's U.S.-based attorney, Clive Smith, submitted a new declaration before the court, suggesting that an exchange involving Shakil Afridi could be a viable option for her repatriation.

Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal, legal counsel Imran Shafiq, and amicus curiae Zainab Janjua appeared before the court. The court questioned what steps the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had taken in response to the letter written by the Prime Minister of Pakistan to former U.S. President Joe Biden, which has remained unanswered. The court further directed that every query raised in the declaration must be addressed in detail.

Subsequently, the Islamabad High Court adjourned the hearing while directing the federal government to submit a response to Clive Smith's declaration by February 21.