Pakistan criticizes U.S.sanctions on its missile program, saying they threaten area peace.

The United States has put sanctions on Pakistan's missile program. Pakistan says this is unfair and could be dangerous for the region. Pakistan believes the sanctions are based on suspicion and not evidence, and that the U.S. has double standards.

The sanctions will stop American companies from doing business with the targeted Pakistani companies. They will also freeze any property these companies own in the U.S. The U.S. says these companies are helping Pakistan build long-range missiles that could pose a threat.

One of the companies, the National Development Complex, is said to be at the heart of Pakistan's missile program. Other companies sanctioned include Akhtar and Sons Private Limited, Affiliates International, and Rockside Enterprise. The U.S. claims these companies are involved in making Pakistan's SHAHEEN missiles, which are a type of ballistic missile.

Not everyone in Pakistan agrees with the government's stance. The party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan also criticized the sanctions. They believe these sanctions will harm Pakistan and are unnecessary.

Pakistan argues its nuclear and missile program is only for defense against its neighbor and rival, India. Both countries have fought wars over Kashmir, a disputed region. Experts believe the sanctions could increase tensions between Pakistan and India and harm regional stability.