Overview

• The Foreign Office says Shama Junejo was not on the official letter of credence for Pakistan’s 80th UNGA delegation and that her seating behind Defence Minister Khawaja Asif lacked approval from Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
• Junejo asserts Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif included her as an adviser, says she was issued a UN security pass, and claims she helped prepare the prime minister’s speech.
• Khawaja Asif says he did not authorise her presence, insists only the FO can explain, and later said he was “taken aback” after the ministry distanced itself.
• It remains unclear who facilitated Junejo’s access and placement with Pakistan’s delegation at UN events in New York, according to official statements and reporting.
• The controversy followed viral images from the UNSC session and resurfaced posts alleging pro‑Israel views; Junejo rejects the label and cites her public criticism of Israel and support for Gaza.