Defense Minister Khawaja Asif Challenges PTI to Bring No-Confidence Motion, Criticizes Opposition’s Political Tactics

Islamabad:Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has responded to the opposition party PTI’s potential no-confidence motion, challenging them to bring it forward, stating, “If PTI is bringing a no-confidence motion, then let them bring it—so be it. My advice to PTI is not to do it, as it will erase whatever little political credibility they have left.”

Speaking to the media in Parliament House, Asif said, “If the opposition wants to bring a no-confidence motion against the government or the Speaker, let them do it. It will expose their true political stature, and whatever little political respect they have will be stripped away.” He added that the opposition’s political game would be laid bare and said that the actions of the previous Speaker, Asad Qaiser, during his tenure in the National Assembly also warranted scrutiny.

He pointed out, “Asad Qaiser was essentially a personal servant to the PTI’s founder during his tenure as Speaker. If a no-confidence motion was to be filed against the current Speaker, there should have been multiple motions against Asad Qaiser during his time as well.”

On the matter of Pakistan’s relationship with the military and the current political situation, Asif highlighted the “hybrid model” of governance, which he claimed had led to “ideal cooperation” between the political government and the establishment. “This collaboration has allowed us to manage our struggling economy in a much better way, and the world is now praising Pakistan’s economic recovery,” he asserted.

Asif also reflected on Pakistan’s historic victories, particularly the 1947 independence day and military triumphs. He said, “The day we defeated India was one of the happiest days in Pakistan’s history. The success of Operation Bunyam Marsoos and the resilience of our military deserve to be remembered. In just four days, our forces achieved unprecedented success.”

Regarding relations with Afghanistan, Asif expressed frustration, criticizing Pakistan’s past involvement in Afghan conflicts, saying, “We fought two wars for Afghanistan, and those were historical mistakes. We had no reason to get involved, yet we ruined our own country in the process. We must maintain good relations with our neighbors, but we cannot continue to be friendly with a country whose soil is used by our enemies.”

In a sharp response to opposition leaders, Asif dismissed claims that Pakistan lacked the necessary military supplies. “The opposition leaders claimed we had no shells or fuel for our jets, but our planes flew, and we shot down six Indian aircraft. As for the ammunition, we are one of the largest exporters of it globally—far more than anyone else,” he added.

The Defense Minister concluded by condemning the opposition’s rhetoric, accusing them of undermining national security for political gain and warning against divisive political tactics that harm Pakistan’s stability.