Islamabad: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has renewed his criticism of former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, particularly targeting his stance on the Taliban and Afghan refugees residing in Pakistan.
Through a post on X, Asif accused Khan of enabling the influx and establishment of thousands of Taliban fighters within Pakistan’s borders. He highlighted that despite prolonged negotiations and numerous delegations between Islamabad and Kabul, acts of violence and terrorism remain rampant across the country.
Asif underscored the continued sacrifices borne by the military and civilians, lamenting, “For years, our army and people have been paying the price with their blood. Every day, soldiers achieve martyrdom, while the Pakistani public suffers the fallout of these actions.”
Addressing the long-standing issue of Afghan refugees, he noted that Pakistan has accommodated approximately 6 million Afghans over the past six decades. However, according to Asif, this generosity has often been met with hostility and unrest.
He criticized the PTI for still advocating discussions with groups involved in terror activities and reiterated the need for Afghan refugees to return to their country.
“Our hospitality is being exploited as these guests spill our blood and harbor criminals,” Asif remarked, urging a repatriation of refugees back to Afghanistan.
