Imran rejects claims he favoured Israel ties

Dismisses accusations of supporting talks with Tel Aviv, calls for ceasefire and two-state solution

RAWALPINDI:

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan on Monday rejected accusations that he supports dialogue with Israel, calling the claims propaganda fuelled by a recent article in an Israeli newspaper.

Speaking informally with media at Adiala Jail during a hearing of a new Toshakhana case, Khan clarified that the article, published by The Jerusalem Post, had actually praised him.

He added that critics misinterpreted it, likely due to their "lack of understanding of English".

"They are making it seem like I am the biggest supporter of talks with Israel."

He asserted that his stance regarding diplomatic ties with the country was clear, stating that Israel must first agree to a ceasefire, and only after a two-state solution can dialogue be considered.

The incarcerated leader also announced that PTI's next rally would be held in Rawalpindi, and if permission was denied, they would stage protests.

He expressed frustration over the lack of investigations into the arrests of PTI workers following the May 9 incidents, accusing the authorities of covering up the truth and manipulating electoral outcomes.

The PTI founder voiced strong criticism of the chief justice and chief election commissioner, accusing them of playing dual roles as both umpires and key players.

He claimed that a "third umpire" is orchestrating everything from behind the scenes and ensuring the system's manipulation to protect election fraud from being exposed.

"They are giving extensions to the very people ensuring that the truth about the May 9 CCTV footage and electoral fraud never comes to light," he added, accusing the judiciary of supporting this cover-up.

The PTI chief likened the current situation to the era of former military ruler General Yahya Khan, stating, "This cabal is destroying both democracy and society to conceal the fraud of the upcoming elections. Our economy is sinking, debt is mounting, and investors are fleeing the country."

The PTI leader remarked that no political party in Pakistan's history has held as many rallies as PTI, but the government has continuously tried to sabotage their efforts.

Referring to the Lahore rally, he pointed out that permission was granted just a day before the event, after which containers were placed to block the roads.

"Unlike them, we don't lure people with free food; our supporters walk to the rallies. Yet, they issued orders to detain 500 of our workers before the event," he said.

He criticised the Lahore High Court (LHC) for ignoring violations of basic rights, adding, "We will hold our rally in Rawalpindi on Saturday. I urge my party to seek permission from the High Court. If denied, we will protest."

Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar said that denying political space to the country's most popular party will only benefit non-political forces.

Speaking to media representatives, he stressed that curbing political participation could destabilise the country.