Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has rejected reports suggesting that former prime minister Imran Khan could be moved abroad or shifted to Bani Gala. He said there had never been any discussion at any level regarding such a move, calling the rumors baseless.
Speaking about the situation, Asif said that it was possible someone might have talked to the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf about facilities, but claims of any “deal” were being spread only to keep political narratives alive. He added that such stories were being promoted to maintain public attention.
The defence minister also criticized the leadership in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying the provincial chief minister’s position was under threat. He alleged that announcing a so-called “Liberation Force” was an attempt to protect political interests, stressing that creating any armed force is unconstitutional and only the federal government has that authority.
Asif further claimed that US president Donald Trump had praised Pakistan’s political and military leadership at an international gathering. According to him, Trump acknowledged the strength of the Pakistan Army and the capabilities of its commanders, while also describing the prime minister’s recent visit to the United States as beneficial for the country.
Commenting on the Middle East, the minister said commitments made during discussions on peace in Gaza were aimed at the resettlement of Palestinians. He expressed hope that the region would be rebuilt and that Palestinians would be able to return and live there peacefully.
