THIS is with reference to the report `US sanctions four Pakistani firms for `aiding ballistic missile programme`` (Dec 19). The concern for keeping a check on `weapons of mass destruction` is, indeed, appreciable, but only if the policies are uniform in terms of implementation.

Unfortunately, they are not, at least in the case of the United States, they are notconsistent at all. Recently, India test-fired a hypersonic missile, but it never faced any sanction at all.

If Pakistan is prevented from countering the threat posed by its neighbour, it would simply undermine Pakistan`s right to self-defence.

Moreover, what is happening in Gaza for the last more than a year is nothing short of a catastrophe. Israel has pounded the territory with thousands of tonnes of bombs, and has used guided missiles to reduce the entire Gaza to ruins. However, there have been no checks in place to stop those atrocities.

Considering the prevailing situation in India-occupied Kashmir, Palestine, Syria, Sudan and Lebanon, one can only conclude that the Muslims are being targeted across the globe, be it by some external force, or by instigating two factions in the same country against each other.

Having said that, the West is not to be blamed. Unless the Muslims show unity and become a dominant force in the internationalarena, no positivity can be expected of others. And each one of us has a role to play in that regard.

Let us show commitment and sincerity in doing the good we can in our capacities instead of merely being silent spectators.

Muhammad Majid Shafi Islamabad