Imran Khan urges Pakistan’s army chief to hold talks with Afghanistan

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed deep grief over the deaths of civilians in the recent bombardment of Tirah Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning that such operations only fuel further terrorism.

Speaking with family members and lawyers at Adiala Jail on Wednesday, Khan criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government for “falling into the establishment’s trap” by allowing military operations in civilian areas.

Khan said his government’s efforts to improve ties with Kabul had brought stability to Pakistan’s tribal belt. In contrast, he accused Army Chief Asim Munir of undermining relations with Afghanistan by issuing threats, expelling long-term Afghan refugees, and authorizing drone strikes.

According to Khan, the objectives behind Munir’s actions are to weaken the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and to court favor with Western anti-Islamic Emirate lobbies.

He urged Munir to prioritize direct dialogue with Afghanistan instead of international tours, emphasizing that lasting peace requires talks among four stakeholders: the Afghan government, the Pakistani government, and both Afghan and tribal communities.