Khawaja Asif Says Defence Orders May Reduce IMF Need

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday said Pakistan could potentially avoid seeking further assistance from the International Monetary Fund within the next six months, pointing to a rise in defence procurement orders following the May 2025 confrontation with India.

Speaking on Geo News programme *Capital Talk*, the Pakistan Muslim League-N leader said the clash with India had put Pakistan’s military capabilities to the test, particularly its aircraft, which he said performed effectively during the conflict.

“We are receiving so many orders that Pakistan may not need the IMF in six months.”

Referring to the May 2025 standoff, Asif said Pakistan had demonstrated its preparedness and resolve, adding that any future aggression from India would be met with a similar response.

He claimed the episode had weakened Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s position both domestically and internationally.

The defence minister said India had reached out to the United States and also contacted China during the conflict in an attempt to gain support, but failed to secure any strategic advantage.

He added that Pakistan’s response was closely watched by the international community.

Turning to regional and global issues, Asif strongly criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing him as a “major criminal against humanity.”

He said the scale of suffering inflicted on Palestinians was without precedent and alleged that those backing Netanyahu shared responsibility.

Asif further said that if the United States truly stood for human rights, it should ensure Netanyahu faced trial. He also made remarks suggesting the Israeli leader should be apprehended and prosecuted.