A single social media post by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has triggered sharp international backlash just as Islamabad hosts sensitive US-Iran peace talks. In the now-deleted tweet, Asif described Israel as “evil and a curse for humanity,” accused it of committing genocide in Gaza, Iran, and now Lebanon, and referred to the Jewish state as a “cancerous state” created on Palestinian land. He further prayed that those who established it “burn in hell.”
Israel’s Prime Minister’s Office called the remarks “outrageous” and a direct “call for Israel’s annihilation,” questioning Pakistan’s ability to act as a neutral mediator. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar labeled the statement as “blatant antisemitic blood libel.” The controversy erupted while US-Iran negotiations were already underway, raising concerns that it could undermine the fragile ceasefire process.
The post was removed within hours, reportedly after internal pressure, including from military leadership. Pakistani officials have not issued an official clarification. This episode highlights the challenges of digital diplomacy in a geopolitically charged environment. While some domestic voices praised the minister for speaking “truth,” others worry it has weakened Pakistan’s international image at a critical moment. The incident underscores how one statement can complicate broader peace efforts.
