THIS is with reference to the report “Govt figures assail Imran over ‘adulatory’ article in Israeli paper” (Sept 23), which carried reaction by various individuals for the alleged links “with the ‘Zionist lobby’, after an article published by an Israeli media outlet alluded to the potential role of former prime minister Imran Khan in the normalisation of ties with Israel”.

The article in question was penned by Harry Richer and carried by The Jerusalem Post under the headline “Redrawing Israel’s geopolitical map on Abraham Accords’ anniversary” (Sept 15).

It is vital to note that a few days earlier (Sept 4), The Times of Israel had carried an article by Aynur Bashirova, titled ‘An unlikely ally: How Imran Khan could shape Israeli-Pakistani relations’.

The latter article had suggested that the incarcerated prime minister could play a key role in fostering relations between Pakistan and Israel, pointing out his poten-tial willingness to normalise relations thr-ough his ties with the Goldsmith family. This is despite the fact that Pakistan does not recognise Israel.

The article argued that the unique perspective as well as connections of the man might help bridge gaps between Israel and the Islamic world, and advised Israel and its allies “to do whatever they can to ensure that Imran Khan is free again to participate in Pakistani politics and be the voice that channels moder-ation”.

Such suggestions coming so blatantly from such a hostile country as Israel should be alarming for those who are responsible for the security of Pakistan.

Abdul Basit Alvi
Muzaffarabad

Published in Dawn, September 26th, 2024