Khawaja Asif denies recognition of Israel, reiterates support for Palestinians

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif underscored the country’s steadfast support for Palestine and its commitment to peace efforts in the Middle East. Speaking in an interview with France 24, he reiterated that Pakistan would not recognize Israel anytime soon, emphasizing the nation’s deep-rooted commitment to Palestinian rights.

Asif highlighted this stance during the inauguration of a Board of Peace meeting led by U.S. President Donald Trump, which will take place in Washington on February 19th. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar are scheduled to attend. In his remarks, Asif revealed that Pakistan was already involved in UN peacekeeping missions and had been vocal about the Palestinian cause for decades.

“When it comes to a military force in Gaza, we’re open to possibilities provided they align with our terms of reference,” he stated, noting Pakistan’s experience in such endeavors. “Palestine is an issue close to our hearts; it has always held importance for us. And this opportunity at the Board of Peace holds promise towards achieving a two-state solution.”

The minister was subsequently queried on whether Pakistan could normalize ties with Israel, which some neighboring nations had already done. He firmly denied any immediate consideration: “Not yet, not considering the current paradigm and the rights Palestinians should have to their homeland.”

Asif’s comments were contextualized by the recent terrorist attack at an Imambargah in Islamabad, where he attributed the proliferation of terrorism across the border to the “non-seriousness” displayed by the Afghan Taliban. He asserted that Pakistan would not hesitate to respond militarily if threats emanated from Afghanistan.

Moreover, Asif addressed India’s military engagements with Pakistan, mentioning a conflict in May 2025 and describing Indian air forces as unsuccessful invaders of Pakistani airspace. The minister also noted how Islamabad had maintained diplomatic efforts but found them ineffective, citing the Afghan Taliban’s acceptance that Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operated from their territory.

“Whether we mediate or not, they will accept the responsibility,” he concluded, suggesting a continued stalemate in resolving conflicts between India and Afghanistan.