Pakistan Defence Minister's Anti-Israel Post Sparks Diplomatic Row Ahead of Peace Talks
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif ignited a diplomatic controversy by posting and subsequently deleting harsh anti-Israel remarks on X, just hours before Islamabad was set to host peace talks between US and Iranian delegations. Asif labeled Israel a 'curse for humanity' and a 'cancerous state,' referencing ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Iran, and Lebanon. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office condemned the comments as 'outrageous' and intolerable for a nation claiming neutrality, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described them as antisemitic blood libels calling for annihilation. The incident complicates Pakistan's role as a mediator, especially after Iranian officials stated they would not attend unless the ceasefire extends to Lebanon. This follows heavy Israeli strikes in Lebanon that killed over 200 people, drawing global condemnation. Despite the tension, Pakistani officials emphasize their priority is facilitating smooth negotiations to end the broader regional conflict, aiming to avoid being seen as spoilers in the delicate diplomatic process involving major global powers.
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Pakistan Defence Minister's Anti-Israel Post Sparks Diplomatic Row Ahead of Peace Talks
Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif ignited a diplomatic controversy by posting and subsequently deleting harsh anti-Israel remarks on X, just hours before Islamabad was set to host peace talks between US and Iranian delegations. Asif labeled Israel a 'curse for humanity' and a 'cancerous state,' referencing ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Iran, and Lebanon. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office condemned the comments as 'outrageous' and intolerable for a nation claiming neutrality, while Foreign Minister Gideon Saar described them as antisemitic blood libels calling for annihilation. The incident complicates Pakistan's role as a mediator, especially after Iranian officials stated they would not attend unless the ceasefire extends to Lebanon. This follows heavy Israeli strikes in Lebanon that killed over 200 people, drawing global condemnation. Despite the tension, Pakistani officials emphasize their priority is facilitating smooth negotiations to end the broader regional conflict, aiming to avoid being seen as spoilers in the delicate diplomatic process involving major global powers.
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