Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif launched a scathing critique of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, Imran Khan, calling him "Israel’s asset" in a tweet on Thursday.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, Kh Asif claimed that the Western world is voicing support for the PTI leader, who allegedly aims to destabilise Pakistan through external backing.
Asif stated, “Operation Goldsmith’s recruits are running campaigns against Pakistan. These elements want to subdue the country through the PTI founder.”
Reaffirming the government's stance, he added, “The Pakistani nation knows how to protect its interests; our first and last priority is Pakistan.”
Speaking to the media in London on December 22, Asif accused PTI of desperation for dialogue with the government. He highlighted the delay in punishing those responsible for the May 9 violence, blaming the judiciary for hindering justice.
The defence minister further criticised the jailed former prime minister for his contradictory behaviour, citing his “absolutely not” stance toward the United States while now allegedly seeking American support to regain power.
Asif also denounced Imran Khan’s leadership, stating, “One who takes U-turns cannot be a national leader.” He lamented the Panama case verdict as a disgrace for the judiciary and accused the previous PTI government of record-breaking corruption.