Former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Faiz Hameed has been sentenced to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment by a military court. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed the verdict on Thursday, marking one of the most significant accountability cases in Pakistan’s recent history.
Military Court Reaches Verdict After 15-Month Trial
The Field General Court Martial (FGCM) initiated proceedings against Hameed on August 12, 2024. The trial continued for over 15 months and remained one of the most closely watched legal processes in the country.
The ex-spymaster faced four major charges, including engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misusing authority and state resources, and causing financial loss to various individuals. According to ISPR, the court found him guilty on all counts.
The military court formally issued the sentence on December 11, 2025, after what officials described as a lengthy and transparent process.
Full Legal Rights Granted During Proceedings
ISPR stated that the accused received complete legal rights throughout the trial. He was allowed to select a defence team of his choice. The court maintained that all legal protocols under the Pakistan Army Act were strictly followed.
Under Section 133B of the Army Act, Hameed can appeal the decision within 40 days. The appeal will be reviewed by a court of appeals, which includes the army chief or officers designated by him.
Additional Investigations Continue
ISPR also revealed that the former general’s involvement in political agitation and collaboration with political groups is being investigated separately. These matters are linked to unrest and destabilizing activities allegedly carried out with vested interests.
In October 2025, ISPR DG Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry emphasized that the military relies on evidence rather than accusations. He stated that every accused individual receives ample time and opportunity to defend themselves.
Background of the Case
Hameed was arrested in August 2024 after allegations surfaced from the owner of a private housing society. These claims triggered a broader inquiry into the misuse of authority and political involvement. The case challenged the long-standing perception that senior intelligence officials were immune from accountability.
By December 2024, the military court formally indicted him on charges related to political interference, anti-espionage violations, and abuse of power. At that time, ISPR confirmed that investigations also covered unrest linked to events of May 9, 2023, when violent protests erupted across Pakistan after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Government Officials React to the Verdict
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar Welcomes the Decision
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that the verdict was based on strong evidence. He confirmed that Hameed was also penalised in the Top City case, where he was accused of pressuring a private housing society for financial gain.
Tarar said the former ISI chief received full opportunity to defend himself. All witnesses gave statements, after which the court delivered what he described as a “just verdict.”
He stressed that no one is above the law and added that further investigations into Hameed’s political activities will continue. Tarar alleged that Hameed acted as PTI’s political adviser and played a significant role in political unrest.
A “Historic Decision”
Speaking to Geo News, Tarar called the ruling historic. He highlighted that the case lasted 15 months and followed legal procedures thoroughly. He also stated that more action may be taken against the former general based on ongoing inquiries.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Also Comments
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reacted on social media, stating that the nation will live with the consequences of actions taken by Faiz Hameed and former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa for years.
A Turning Point in Military Accountability
The sentencing of Faiz Hameed marks a defining moment for Pakistan’s military justice system. The case shows a clear message: no individual, regardless of rank, is exempt from accountability. As investigations continue, the country awaits the outcomes of remaining inquiries tied to Hameed’s political and administrative decisions.
This landmark decision underscores a new era of transparency and reinforces the principle that justice must prevail based on facts, evidence, and due process.
Khalid Minhas | Editor, Diplomatic Wire
A veteran journalist with three decades of comprehensive experience, Khalid Minhas has covered politics and international relations in depth throughout his career. He has also contributed to academia, teaching journalism and mass communication as a visiting faculty member at various universities in Pakistan. He holds an M.Phil in Mass Communication and is currently a Ph.D research scholar pursuing advanced studies in the field. He is also the author of the book America, Israel aur Islam, providing insightful analysis on the subject.
