Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has urged for de-escalation and mutual respect between political actors and state institutions, expressing disappointment over the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) director general’s recent press conference. Hours earlier, ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry had launched a scathing attack on PTI founder Imran Khan and his party, accusing them of spreading “anti-army rhetoric” and targeting the armed forces. In a post on X, Barrister Gohar said, “I have always hoped for reduced tensions and improved relations. Today, ISPR’s press conference has left me disappointed.” While acknowledging the importance of the country’s defence, he emphasised that “PTI’s narrative has never been, nor will ever be, anti-state.” He criticised the public labelling of political leaders and institutions as mentally ill or threats, calling it “regrettable.” Stressing national unity, he said, “Pakistan and its armed forces belong to all of us. PTI has demonstrated its commitment to the country and will continue to do so.” Gohar called on all sides to acknowledge each other, create space for dialogue, and work to rebuild trust. He warned that actions by non-stakeholders should not worsen tensions between PTI and state institutions. He also mentioned that allowing meetings for jailed PTI leaders, including the founder and Bushra Bibi, could pave the way for reconciliation, adding that “the country cannot bear further unrest.” The ISPR DG’s press conference, which lasted over two hours, had labelled the PTI founder “mentally ill” and a national security threat. Lt Gen Chaudhry accused Imran Khan of collaborating with external elements, spreading disinformation, inciting unrest, and persistently attacking the armed forces. He alleged that the former premier’s ego had led him to assert, “if not me, then nothing.” The ISPR chief further claimed that Khan promoted a coordinated system of social media trolling, managed narratives through his accounts, and compared himself to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He said international, Indian, and Afghan media amplified the messaging, with overseas troll networks boosting content in synchronised cycles. Following the ISPR briefing, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar announced a complete ban on meetings with the jailed PTI founder at Adiala jail. Speaking on Geo News’ Naya Pakistan, the minister described the former prime minister as an “extremist” driven by war hysteria. “There are no meetings; all meetings are banned,” he added. Tarar also announced plans for registering cases against those creating narratives against the country. “They now have no future; their political space and narrative will be restricted,” he added.
