Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif sparked widespread controversy on Thursday after making incendiary remarks in a televised interview urging foreign powers to “kidnap” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if they believe in justice and humanity.
In the live interview, Asif repeatedly described Netanyahu as the “worst criminal of humanity”, asserting that the scale of suffering inflicted on Palestinians in Gaza was unmatched in history. He framed his remarks by comparing the situation to the recent US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, and said similar action should be taken against Netanyahu.
“No community has done what Israel has done to Palestinians in the last 4,000–5,000 years. He [Netanyahu] is the biggest criminal of humanity. The world has not seen a bigger criminal,” Asif said. He added that the United States could “kidnap” Netanyahu, and even Turkey might do so, saying “Pakistanis are praying for it.”
The minister’s comments drew immediate attention because of their extreme nature and the sensitive geopolitical context surrounding the Israel–Gaza conflict. Authorities in Pakistan have historically refused to recognise Israel, and relations between the two countries have remained contentious.
Television Discussion Cuts Short
During the broadcast, Asif attempted to broaden his remarks to include questions about penalising those who “support such criminals,” but anchor Hamid Mir interrupted the segment, warning that the remarks could be interpreted as provocative and potentially referencing the United States. The anchor then announced a break and indicated Asif would not return to the programme after the interval.
Political and Geopolitical Backdrop
Asif’s comments come amidst intense global focus on the Gaza conflict and follow recent dramatic developments — including the US capture of Venezuelan President Maduro — which Asif referenced to justify his call. Analysts say his statement could further strain Pakistan’s already delicate diplomatic positioning regarding Middle East affairs.
Reactions and Implications
Political leaders and international observers are expected to react strongly to Asif’s remarks, given the potential diplomatic fallout. The suggestion that one state should abduct the head of government of another sovereign nation is unprecedented in contemporary politics and could complicate Pakistan’s global relations.
Background context: Pakistan has never recognised Israel and routinely positions itself in opposition to Israeli policies, particularly those involving the Palestinians.