Imran Khan Calls for Unity Between PTI and Pakistan Army, But Analysts Doubt Potential Deal

Founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, has called for greater unity between PTI and the Pakistan Army, stating that while he has not closed the door to talks with the establishment, he had previously refused to engage in discussions with the current government. This message was conveyed to the media by PTI Chairman, Barrister Gohar, following his meeting with Imran Khan in Adiala Jail.

Imran Khan’s statement has raised questions about the possibility of renewed talks or a deal between PTI and the military. **V News** approached political analysts to explore whether this statement signals a shift in the dynamic between the two parties and whether a deal is now more likely.

Senior analyst **Ansar Abbasi** stated that both PTI and Imran Khan have long hoped to initiate dialogue with the establishment. However, he emphasized that currently, the circumstances are not conducive to any such deal. “The establishment does not trust Imran Khan or PTI at all,” Abbasi remarked, explaining that without mutual trust, a deal cannot be reached.

He further highlighted that while the popularity of the Pakistan Army has risen among the public, the trust deficit between the army and PTI remains significant. Abbasi added that for any possibility of relief for Imran Khan or PTI, they would need to take a major U-turn on their previous stance regarding the military. “If Imran Khan stops attacking the army and reconsiders his narrative, then perhaps there may be a chance for some relief. However, this would require a dramatic shift in PTI’s position,” he said.

Another senior analyst, **Ahmed Waleed**, commented that the statement issued by Barrister Gohar regarding Imran Khan’s willingness to engage with the establishment is not new. “PTI has previously discussed negotiations with the establishment, but the establishment has never shown any interest in engaging in talks or deals,” Waleed noted.

He pointed out that while PTI leaders have frequently floated the idea of negotiations in the past, there has been no indication from the military that they are open to such discussions. “If PTI truly wanted to engage in talks with the military, making such a statement through the media seems insincere,” Waleed added.

Waleed stressed that the fundamental issue between PTI and the establishment is a lack of trust. He also speculated that while there might be some informal or lower-level conversations occurring, the conditions of such negotiations would likely be so stringent that PTI would find it difficult to comply.

Overall, analysts remain skeptical about the likelihood of a successful deal or meaningful negotiations between PTI and the military, given the current political and trust dynamics.