Asif described Netanyahu as “one of the biggest criminals against humanity,” citing Israel’s military operations in Gaza. He went further to suggest that the United States should detain Netanyahu in a manner similar to what he alleged happened to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The anchor, senior journalist Hamid Mir, interrupted the interview mid-conversation, calling the remarks sensitive, before taking the programme to a commercial break.
Asif’s statements come at a time when the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified global scrutiny of Israel’s actions. Referring to reports of an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Netanyahu over alleged war crimes, Asif said those backing Israel’s leadership must also be questioned under international law. His remarks were widely circulated on social media, drawing both criticism and support.
Pakistan, which does not have diplomatic relations with Israel, has consistently supported the Palestinian cause and has frequently condemned Israeli military actions. Islamabad also maintains close political and strategic ties with countries such as Iran and Turkey, both vocal critics of Israel’s conduct in Gaza. Asif’s comments reflect this long-standing position, though analysts note that such explicit calls for arrest are rare at the ministerial level.
The Defence Minister’s reference to Venezuela relates to claims that former president Nicolás Maduro was detained following U.S. action—an assertion that remains disputed internationally. Nevertheless, Asif used the comparison to underscore what he termed a double standard in the application of international law.
More than two years after the Gaza war erupted following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, the conflict has left large parts of the enclave in ruins. International agencies estimate that tens of thousands of Palestinians, including a significant number of children, have been killed, while millions face displacement and severe shortages of food, water and medical care.
Diplomatic observers say Asif’s remarks are unlikely to alter Pakistan’s official policy but could strain already complex regional dynamics. As global pressure mounts for accountability and a ceasefire, statements such as these underline how the Gaza conflict continues to reverberate far beyond the Middle East, shaping political discourse across the Muslim world and beyond.
