Former Prime Minister Imran Khan clarified his position on Israel, stating that it aligns with Pakistan’s official stance.
This remark came after an opinion piece in the Jerusalem Post suggested that Khan was in favor of normalizing relations with Israel. Speaking informally with reporters at Adiala Jail, he emphasized, “My stance on Israel aligns with Pakistan’s position.”
Khan’s comments were in response to an article by foreign policy analyst Harry Richer, which claimed that Khan indicated support for normalization, although he acknowledged that the military’s firm position prevented such changes. Pakistan currently does not have diplomatic relations with Israel and advocates for a two-state solution based on relevant United Nations and OIC resolutions, with pre-1967 borders and Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine.
He reiterated that any discussions with Israel should occur after a ceasefire in Gaza and stressed the importance of the two-state solution. Khan criticized the rampant propaganda following the article’s release and noted that it discussed his credibility in both Western and Muslim circles.
Additionally, Khan announced a rally in Rawalpindi scheduled for September 28. Responding to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for national unity, Khan asserted that peace is rooted in justice. He claimed the elections were rigged, with PTI members imprisoned after the events of May 9, and criticized the lack of investigations into these incidents. He stated, “Without justice, there will be no peace in the country. What peace will your upcoming amendments bring?”
Read More: Imran Khan Seen as Potential Bridge Between Israel and Pakistan
Khan also expressed concerns over the deteriorating economic situation, attributing rising debt to stagnant income and a lack of investment, leading to many people leaving the country. He pointed out the unprecedented turnout at PTI rallies, claiming no other party in Pakistan’s history has gathered such large crowds. Despite government efforts to disrupt their events through last-minute restrictions and the detention of 500 PTI members, he praised the commitment of supporters who walk to attend the rallies.
Furthermore, Khan criticized the Lahore High Court for failing to address violations of fundamental rights. He encouraged party members to seek court permission for the upcoming rally in Rawalpindi, warning that they would protest if permission was denied.
