Imran Khan denies allegations of supporting ties with Israel

PTI founder accuses detractors of twisting the narrative based on a recent Israeli newspaper article

RAWALPINDI:

Former prime minister and PTI founder Imran Khan, currently incarcerated, has dismissed allegations of being a proponent of establishing relations with Israel, accusing detractors of twisting the narrative based on a recent Israeli newspaper article.

Khan, who is facing several legal battles while in detention, addressed the media at Adiala Jail on Monday, labelling the claims as part of a "propaganda campaign."

"Since yesterday, there has been a propaganda blitz, citing an Israeli newspaper that I am the biggest advocate for relations with Israel," Khan said. "These claims are absurd. The article did mention me, but clearly, some people do not understand English."

The article in question, published by The Jerusalem Post, discussed Khan's influence in the Muslim world and the West, speculating on the potential impact he or a similar leader could have on Pakistan’s foreign policy, particularly in relation to Israel. However, Khan was quick to clarify that his position on Israel remains firmly pro-Palestinian.

"My stance on Israel has not changed. The Palestinian people are enduring genocide. Any discussions with Israel are contingent upon a ceasefire and a genuine commitment to a two-state solution," Khan asserted. He accused his political opponents of misinterpreting the article to undermine his credibility.

Khan’s remarks come against the backdrop of a volatile political environment in Pakistan.

Responding to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent appeal for unity and cooperation to steer the country towards development, Khan offered a sharp rebuke. "Shehbaz Sharif, listen carefully: peace is a by-product of justice," Khan declared. "The elections were blatantly rigged, PTI workers were thrown in jail after the May 9 events, and yet no serious investigations are underway. Without justice, there can be no peace."

Khan also took aim at proposed constitutional amendments, warning that they would further erode peace and stability. He accused the chief justice and chief election commissioner of overstepping their roles, likening them to "umpires who are also opening batsmen," suggesting that the judiciary and election authorities are not impartial.

"The third umpire, who is essentially the captain of their team, is orchestrating everything from behind the scenes," Khan alleged, alluding to what he perceives as covert manipulation of the political process. He expressed grave concerns over the alleged electoral fraud and the withholding of CCTV footage from the May 9 events, which he believes is being used to protect the establishment.

Drawing parallels with the regime of General Yahya Khan, Khan accused the current government of destroying democracy and societal fabric to cover up electoral malpractices. "This group is leading the country towards a crisis similar to that of Yahya Khan’s era. Economic instability is increasing, debt is piling up, and investors are reluctant to engage. People are leaving the country in droves," Khan warned.

Despite the obstacles, including delayed rally permissions, mass arrests of PTI supporters, and administrative hurdles, Khan boasted about his party’s ability to mobilise massive crowds. He cited the example of a recent rally in Lahore, where permissions were granted only a day before the event, yet his supporters turned out in large numbers, despite the placement of containers to block access.

"Our rallies are not about free food. People come on foot, driven by a cause," Khan said, in a veiled reference to claims that other political parties use incentives like food to attract crowds. He also mentioned that orders were issued to detain 500 PTI workers ahead of the Lahore rally, yet the event went ahead, a testament, he said, to the resilience of his supporters.

Khan announced plans for another rally in Rawalpindi next week and instructed his party to seek legal permissions from the high court. He warned that if permission is denied, the party will resort to protests. "They want to dismantle the judiciary and impose an undeclared martial law. But we will not back down. If they proceed with these amendments, we will start a street movement against them," Khan vowed.