KARACHI: Ismat Siddiqui, the mother of Dr Aafia Siddiqui who is serving a jail sentence in a US prison, passed away in Karachi on Saturday.

Her death was confirmed by Pasban-e-Pakistan President Altaf Shakoor. The 80-year-old mother of Dr Afia was suffering from multiple disorders. Ismat Siddiqui left behind three children including Dr. Aafia.

Earlier this week, Dr Fauzia Siddiqui appealed to the nation to offer special prayers for the recovery of her mother. Several politicians and activists have expressed sorrow over Ismat Siddiqui’s death.

Last week, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate the family of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, who is serving a jail term in US, in acquiring US visa.