Pakistan defence minister deletes post calling Israel 'cancerous' after Lebanon strikes
Key Points:
- Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif deleted a social media post in which he described Israel as “cancerous” and “a curse for humanity” following deadly Israeli strikes on Lebanon that killed over 300 people.
- The strikes occurred shortly after a fragile ceasefire was brokered by Pakistan between the US and Iran, with Pakistan mediating ongoing peace negotiations in Islamabad.
- Pakistan condemned the Israeli attacks on Lebanon, warning of possible sabotage to the US-Iran talks, while Israel and the US denied that Lebanon was covered under the ceasefire agreement.
- Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, condemned Asif’s remarks as outrageous and incompatible with Pakistan’s role as a mediator, emphasizing Israel’s right to self-defense against threats.
- The situation remains tense with Lebanon urging Pakistan to ensure its inclusion in any broader ceasefire framework amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.