'Radicalised Islamist' Asim Munir yearns for war with India as Imran Khan pushes for peace: Ex-Pak PM's sister

In an interview on Sky News’ The World with Yalda Hakim, she labelled Munir a “radicalised Islamist” and an “Islamic conservatist,” claiming his ideological leanings drive him toward conflict.

Responding to questions about the causes of the India–Pakistan war in May, Aleema directed her criticism at Munir, asserting that his “radicalisation and conservatism” fuel his desire for war.

According to her, Munir’s worldview compels him to oppose those he considers outside his religious beliefs.

She contrasted this with Imran Khan, whom she described as a “pure liberal.”

Aleema argued that whenever Imran Khan is in office, he attempts to improve ties with India—even with the BJP—whereas Munir’s influence, she claimed, leads to hostility not only toward India but also its allies.

Calling Imran Khan an “asset,” she urged Western governments to increase efforts to secure his release.

India–Pakistan face-off

On May 7, India conducted precision strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, including a Nepalese citizen.

The operation, codenamed Sindoor, focused solely on militant infrastructure and avoided Pakistani military or civilian installations, according to New Delhi.

Asim Munir vs Imran Khan

Tensions between Munir and Imran Khan date back to 2019, when Munir reportedly sought to investigate corruption allegations involving Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, and her associates.

The move, according to reports, angered the then–prime minister, who removed Munir from his position as Director General of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) just eight months into what is typically a three-year tenure.

No official explanation was given for the reshuffle.

Imran Khan in jail

Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has been imprisoned since August 2023 following multiple convictions.

He remains in Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, where concerns over his health and treatment have grown after family members claimed they were denied access for over a month.

On Tuesday, Khan’s sister, Dr Uzma Khanum, met him for 20 minutes and later told reporters that he was being “mentally tortured,” alleging he is confined to his cell for most of the day with minimal communication allowed. 

She said Khan holds Asim Munir responsible for his imprisonment and current condition.

Aleema Khan echoed those concerns, claiming authorities are isolating him to silence public support.

She argued that Imran Khan “represents 90% of the country” and that his detention is part of a broader attempt to suppress the Pakistani people.

“They thought if they isolated him, people would forget him,” she said.