While addressing the media at Adiala Jail on Monday amid various legal challenges, Khan described the allegations as part of a "propaganda campaign."
Since yesterday, there has been a propaganda barrage, claiming through an Israeli newspaper that I am the strongest supporter of relations with Israel, Khan stated. These assertions are ludicrous. The article did mention me, but it seems some people are incapable of understanding English.
The Jerusalem Post published an article that explored Khan's potential influence in the Muslim world and the West, contemplating how he or a similar figure could affect Pakistan's foreign policy, especially concerning Israel. Nonetheless, Khan emphasized that his stance on Israel is steadfastly pro-Palestinian.
My position on Israel remains unchanged. The Palestinian people are facing genocide. Any dialogue with Israel must be predicated on a ceasefire and a true commitment to a two-state solution, Khan maintained. He accused his political rivals of misrepresenting the article to damage his reputation.
Khan's comments arise amid a turbulent political landscape in Pakistan.
In response to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent call for unity and collaboration to guide the nation towards progress, Khan sharply criticized him. "Shehbaz Sharif, pay attention: peace is a consequence of justice," Khan asserted. The elections were clearly rigged, PTI activists were imprisoned after the events of May 9, and yet no substantial investigations are taking place. Without justice, there can be no peace.
Khan also criticized proposed constitutional changes, warning that they would further undermine peace and stability. He accused the chief justice and the chief election commissioner of exceeding their authority, comparing them to "umpires who also open the batting," suggesting a lack of impartiality in the judiciary and electoral authorities.
The third umpire, effectively the captain of their team, is orchestrating everything from behind the scenes, Khan claimed, indicating what he perceives as covert manipulation of the political landscape. He expressed serious concerns regarding alleged electoral fraud and the suppression of CCTV footage from the May 9 events, which he believes is being used to shield the establishment.
Drawing comparisons with General Yahya Khan’s regime, Khan accused the current administration of undermining democracy and social integrity to conceal electoral irregularities. "This group is steering the country towards a crisis akin to Yahya Khan’s era. Economic instability is escalating, debt is mounting, and investors are hesitant to engage. People are fleeing the country in large numbers," Khan cautioned.
Despite challenges such as delayed rally permissions, widespread arrests of PTI supporters, and administrative obstacles, Khan proudly highlighted his party’s capacity to mobilize substantial crowds. He referenced a recent rally in Lahore, where permissions were granted only a day prior, yet his supporters showed up in large numbers despite barriers blocking access.
Our rallies are not centered around free food. People come on foot, driven by a cause, Khan stated, subtly alluding to claims that other political parties incentivize attendance with food. He also noted that orders were issued to arrest 500 PTI activists ahead of the Lahore rally, yet the event proceeded, showcasing, he argued, the determination of his supporters.
Khan announced intentions for another rally in Rawalpindi next week and instructed his party to secure legal permissions from the high court. He warned that if permissions are denied, the party would resort to protests. "They intend to dismantle the judiciary and impose an undeclared martial law. But we will not yield. If they move forward with these amendments, we will initiate a street movement against them," Khan vowed.
