20/02/2026
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has rejected reports of any deal or relief being discussed for the PTI founder, saying no such talks have taken place.
In an exclusive conversation with SAMAA TV at Parliament House, Khawaja Asif said there had been no discussion about shifting the PTI founder abroad or to Bani Gala.
He said it was possible that the PTI founder may have been approached regarding certain facilities, but dismissed claims of any deal. “Rumors of a deal are spread to keep a political product alive in the market,” he said, adding that nothing substantial remained of that product.
Asif said PTI raises talk of a deal to keep its political shop open and to give hope to its supporters. He questioned whether those making such claims were loyal to the country or to an individual, adding that nations endure while individuals do not.
The defense minister said the chief minister’s position was under threat and alleged that the announcement of a so called “rehai force” was aimed at safeguarding his job. He termed the proposed force unconstitutional and illegal, saying the formation of any force is the prerogative of the state and cannot be undertaken by a province independently of the federation.
Khawaja Asif also said Pakistan received a distinct position at a recent Gaza peace board meeting and claimed that US President Donald Trump had praised Pakistan’s political and military leadership.