ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has sharply criticized former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), for advocating dialogue with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), labeling the approach as dangerous and irresponsible.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Asif accused Khan of enabling the settlement of thousands of Taliban fighters within Pakistan. He expressed frustration over continued violence despite years of diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan.
“For years, our army and civilians have been paying the price with their blood,” Asif said. “Our soldiers are martyred every day, and the Pakistani people continue to suffer the consequences.”
He highlighted that Pakistan has hosted nearly six million Afghan refugees over six decades, but claimed that the goodwill has been met with violence and instability. Asif urged the repatriation of Afghan refugees, stating, “We are providing hospitality, but these guests are shedding our blood and sheltering killers.”
The minister also condemned PTI’s continued calls for negotiations with militants, asserting that such policies undermine national security and the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions over cross-border militancy and domestic security concerns, as Pakistan grapples with a resurgence in terrorist activity.
