The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently indicted two Iranian brothers, Shahab and Yunus Mir’kazei, along with a Pakistani national, Muhammad Pahlawan, for allegedly providing material support to Iran’s weapons of mass destruction (WMD) program. This indictment builds on earlier charges from February, accusing the three of conspiring to support Iran’s WMD efforts and committing acts of violence related to maritime navigation.
Pahlawan was apprehended by U.S. forces during an operation off the coast of Somalia, where he was allegedly caught transporting advanced Iranian-made weaponry, including components for medium-range ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles, intended for Houthi rebel forces in Yemen. The operation resulted in the deaths of two U.S. Navy SEALs. Pahlawan is currently in U.S. custody, while the Mir’kazei brothers remain at large.
The DOJ has also charged another Pakistani national, Asif Raza Merchant, for his alleged involvement in a plot to assassinate a U.S. politician and other officials. The Pakistani Foreign Office (FO) addressed this development, with Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stating that they have yet to receive details from U.S. authorities to confirm Merchant’s nationality or involvement.
In response to these cases, the Pakistani government has expressed concerns about the implications for its relations with the U.S. and Iran. During a weekly briefing, Baloch refuted claims reported by Israeli media that Pakistan was supplying missiles to Iran, calling the reports baseless and urging caution during this sensitive time in the Middle East. She also expressed concern over the evolving situation in the region, particularly regarding Israeli actions against Palestinians, and called for restraint from all parties involved.
The FO spokesperson emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with the U.S., while also addressing references to Pakistan in recent U.S. congressional discussions. She expressed hope that these discussions would focus on mutual collaboration, benefiting both nations.
This case highlights the delicate diplomatic balance Pakistan must maintain as it faces serious allegations involving its nationals, while also navigating its relationships with both the U.S. and Iran amidst growing regional tensions.
