ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the Afghan Taliban and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) are not trustworthy and alleged they maintain links with India.
Speaking to a private television channel, Asif claimed that some members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provincial government provide financial support to the Taliban. He said the situation in the province requires a political solution.
Asif said he does not support banning Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) or imposing governor’s rule. He said past attempts to ban political parties failed and only worsened political instability.
The defence minister warned that Pakistan remains ready for war if India launches another attack. He said Pakistan demonstrated its military strength during the May 2025 conflict.
Asif said Pakistan’s response boosted national prestige and strengthened the defence industry. He claimed military aircraft were successfully tested and new export orders followed. He added that Pakistan may no longer need IMF assistance within six months.
He said Pakistan’s response in the conflict was visible to the world and claimed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi suffered a political setback at home and abroad.
Asif said India approached the United States and also contacted China during the conflict. He warned that Pakistan would respond decisively to any new Indian “adventure.”
He said the world acknowledges Pakistan’s military capability and claimed India lost confidence after the May 2025 fighting.
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Commenting on Gaza, Asif said if the United States supports humanity, it should detain Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and put him on trial. He added that he hopes Turkey will arrest Netanyahu and deliver justice.
