Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court will hear the case concerning Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's health and repatriation on January 20, 2026. Earlier, the court had directed the federal government to submit a comprehensive briefing by January 20.

During previous proceedings, the Additional Attorney General representing the government stated that Dr. Siddiqui is a U.S. citizen and served her sentence in the United States, and that Pakistan cannot intervene in the U.S. judicial system.

A larger bench of the Islamabad High Court, headed by Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir, and comprising Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, and Justice Inam Amin Minhas, will hear the petition filed by Dr. Siddiqui's sister, Fauzia Siddiqui.

The petitioner's counsel, Imran Shafiq Advocate, will represent Dr. Siddiqui's family, while Additional Attorney General Rashid Hafeez will appear on behalf of the federal government.

During the last hearing, Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir remarked that the court wishes to resolve the petition but that the four judges cannot sit daily due to limited time. The Additional Attorney General informed the court that visa processing and other facilities had been provided, and the federal government has acted to the extent of its powers. He reiterated that Pakistan cannot interfere in the internal matters or judicial system of the United States, where Dr. Siddiqui had been sentenced.

The court directed the Additional Attorney General to ensure that the federal government takes some action and submits a briefing accordingly. Following this, the hearing was adjourned until January 20, 2026.