An Israeli newspaper has claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan wants to normalise ties between Pakistan and Israel.
What did the article say about Imran Khan?
In an opinion piece in the Jerusalem Post by Harry Richer, it was said that although Pakistan has historically maintained a predominantly pro-Palestine stance, there have been occasional signs that the country wants to improve its relations with Israel.
“Former prime minister Imran Khan – despite his strong rhetoric against Israeli policies – hinted at Pakistan needing to forge its own foreign policy path. This was particularly pertinent at a time when the rest of the Muslim world began to normalize ties with Israel on the basis of self-interest,” the article said.
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Richer served as an aide to a member of the UK parliament.
The article suggests two things in Pakistan that would have to change for the betterment of relations.
The first is a change of the ‘strong resistance’ within the Pakistan military, according to Richer. The other factor would require a change in the leadership of Pakistan.
According to Richer, normalisation with Israel would bring Pakistan support in agriculture, cybersecurity, and defense.
Pakistan has a longstanding commitment to the Palestinian cause. The country has never formally recognised Israel.
