Khawaja Asif: Talks with PTI require a clear message from Imran Khan

Islamabad

Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized the leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), calling them powerless and stating that talks with the party cannot begin until a clear message is received from PTI founder Imran Khan. Speaking to source, Asif emphasized that the current PTI leadership lacks decision-making authority.

Earlier this month, Imran Khan warned the government of launching a civil disobedience movement if his demands, including an independent investigation into the crackdown on PTI supporters, were not addressed. He also formed a committee to negotiate with the government.

Asif raised doubts about the feasibility of negotiations, pointing to divisions within PTI’s ranks, with party leaders publicly criticizing one another. He stressed that any talks would require a clear directive from Imran Khan, who he noted is the ultimate source of instructions for PTI members.

In a separate issue, Asif also addressed Pakistan’s concerns with Afghanistan, stating that the only problem is the use of Afghan soil by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for cross-border attacks. The TTP has been increasing attacks on Pakistani forces and civilians, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, since the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.