Pakistan’s attempt to project goodwill by sending humanitarian relief to flood-hit Sri Lanka has backfired after social-media users alleged that some of the food items in the aid consignment were expired. The controversy erupted when images shared by Pakistan’s High Commission in Sri Lanka originally meant to showcase solidarity were closely examined by users who noticed expiry dates from October 2024 printed on relief packets. The discovery triggered a wave of online criticism, with many accusing Pakistan of degrading humanitarian norms and insulting a disaster-stricken nation. Users mocked Islamabad for turning a relief mission into a diplomatic embarrassment, saying that sending expired food to flood victims reflected poorly on the country’s competence and sincerity.

The aid operation, coordinated by Pakistan’s disaster-management authorities and involving rescue teams, was initially presented as a gesture of regional friendship following severe floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Ditwah. But the expired-aid allegations have overshadowed the mission completely, raising serious questions about oversight, quality control and the government’s commitment to responsible humanitarian assistance. Critics slammed the move as unacceptable and harmful, arguing that disaster survivors require safe, high-quality supplies not items that are past their shelf life. Many said the episode had damaged Pakistan’s credibility on the global stage at a time when the country can ill afford diplomatic missteps.

So far, Pakistani authorities have not issued a clear explanation or apology, deepening public frustration and international embarrassment. Observers warn that such incidents can erode trust in relief efforts and may discourage future cooperation between nations in times of crisis. For Sri Lanka, still grappling with widespread destruction, the episode adds another layer of difficulty as affected communities rely heavily on reliable international aid.