Imran Khan Postpones PTI Protest Movement Amid Escalating Regional Tensions
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to defer the party’s protest campaign by two weeks due to the ongoing regional volatility, especially the mounting tensions in the Middle East stemming from the Iran-Israel conflict.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by PTI leader Noreen Khanum after meeting Khan at Adiala Jail, where he is currently incarcerated. Speaking to reporters outside the prison, she said Khan had taken this step in light of the “sensitive regional circumstances” and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
“We are waiting for policy statements from the president, prime minister, and field marshal before moving forward,” Khanum noted, indicating that the decision was made in Pakistan’s national interest.
Call for Unity and Concern Over Economic Policies
Khanum added that despite being cut off from personal meetings for a week, Imran Khan remained well-informed on global affairs and believes Pakistan cannot remain untouched by regional conflicts. “He has urged the nation to stay united during these uncertain times,” she emphasized.
Khan also commented on Pakistan’s federal budget, describing it as elitist and burdensome for the salaried class. “While the poor continue to struggle, the tax burden has been unfairly shifted to the working class,” he reportedly said.
Highlighting economic concerns, Khanum stated that over 3.3 million educated Pakistanis have left the country in the last three years, each carrying roughly $30,000, contributing to a significant foreign exchange outflow.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Budget Discussions Ongoing
Regarding the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) budget, Khanum said it will be finalized after consultations with senior party members including Ali Amin Gandapur, Taimur Jhagra, Muzzammil Aslam, and Shibli Faraz, who are expected to meet Khan soon.
PTI Denies Withdrawing Protest Support
PTI leader Uzma Khan, who also spoke to the media, clarified that Imran Khan has not abandoned the protest movement. “He actually laughed at the idea that he had backed out,” she said, reaffirming that PTI supporters worldwide would continue to raise their voices.
She added that Ali Amin Gandapur remains fully committed to the movement and dismissed rumors of any rift. Uzma also criticized the silence of current political leaders during key international crises, including the India-Pakistan conflict and Gaza, questioning their moral stance and demanding they clearly define their positions.
“This government came to power with just 17 seats — they owe the nation an explanation. We’re also waiting to hear from the real decision-makers,” she concluded.
