ISLAMABAD: The government of Israel on Thursday strongly reacted to comments made by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, criticising his statements and also questioning Pakistan’s neutrality in the ongoing United States–Iran negotiations being held in Islamabad.
Read More: Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif criticises Israel over Gaza and Labanon
In a statement issued from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, Khawaja Asif was condemned for what it described as “unacceptable and inflammatory remarks” calling for the elimination of Israel. The statement said such comments were “not tolerable from any government, especially one that presents itself as a neutral facilitator of peace.”
Israel further objected to Pakistan’s broader diplomatic posture, suggesting that the remarks raised concerns about Islamabad’s neutrality as a host of sensitive peace talks.
The controversy stems from a post by Khawaja Asif on social media platform X, where he referred to Israel as “evil and a curse for humanity.” He accused Israel of committing “genocide” in Lebanon and linked ongoing violence to earlier conflicts in Gaza and Iran, claiming that civilians continue to suffer amid continuous warfare.
Israel has responded strongly to remarks made by Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who referred to the country as ‘cancerous’ and ‘evil.’ The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office has condemned these comments as unacceptable, raising questions about Pakistan’s credibility as a…
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Asif also made highly provocative remarks regarding the historical establishment of Israel, expressing strong condemnation in emotionally charged language.
The statement has added diplomatic sensitivity to an already fragile situation in Islamabad, where ceasefire arrangements and peace negotiations are underway. Observers say the timing of the remarks could complicate efforts to maintain momentum in the talks.
Tensions were further highlighted by conflicting claims over the ceasefire framework. While Pakistan had suggested that Lebanon was included in the agreement, both former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the assertion.
Read More: Khawaja Asif warns of expanding Israeli regional influence
Netanyahu reiterated that there is no ceasefire in Lebanon and said military operations against Hezbollah would continue with full force until Israel’s security objectives are achieved.
With diplomatic efforts ongoing in Islamabad, the exchange of statements has underscored the fragility of the situation and the challenges facing mediators in the region.