Trump Aide's Support Sparks PTI Optimism Amid Imran Khan's Imprisonment

WASHINGTON: A statement by Richard Grenell, a key member of US President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming team, has reignited hope among Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters as the party continues its campaign for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

In an interview with US-based digital platform Newsmax, Grenell, appointed as Trump’s “envoy for special missions,” sharply criticized the Biden administration’s handling of Pakistan’s internal affairs, particularly its approach to the country’s missile program and Imran Khan’s imprisonment. His remarks have gained significant traction both in the United States and Pakistan, where political circles are abuzz with their implications.

Grenell’s vocal advocacy for Imran Khan, including his viral tweet “Free Imran Khan!,” has resonated deeply with PTI supporters. His comments in the interview highlighted the rapport between Trump and Khan, attributing it to their shared status as “outsiders” in the political world. “Imran Khan wasn’t a traditional politician. He spoke in common-sense language, and he and Donald Trump had a very good relationship,” Grenell said.

Criticism of Imran’s Imprisonment

Grenell criticized the charges against Imran Khan, calling them politically motivated and drawing parallels between the PTI leader’s situation and the allegations faced by Trump in the US. “He is currently in prison on a lot of the same allegations, just like President Trump, where the ruling party created false corruption allegations to target him,” Grenell stated.

This comparison has strengthened the perception among PTI supporters that Imran’s imprisonment is part of a broader trend of targeting political adversaries. Grenell’s growing social media presence and his increasing support for Imran Khan have added to the momentum behind the campaign for the former premier’s release.

A Spotlight on Pakistan’s Missile Program

Grenell also criticized the Biden administration for its sanctions on Pakistan over its missile development program. He argued that the US needs a more direct and proactive foreign policy approach toward countries with nuclear capabilities, such as Pakistan. “Countries with nuclear weapons require a different approach, and Pakistan is one of those,” he remarked.

He revealed that Trump’s future Secretary of State Marco Rubio would focus on critical issues involving Pakistan, including its nuclear ambitions. Grenell’s comments have sparked debates in Washington, where policymakers are evaluating the potential direction of US-Pakistan relations under Trump’s next administration.

PTI Welcomes Grenell’s Support

PTI leaders in Pakistan have welcomed Grenell’s remarks, interpreting them as a boost to their campaign for Imran Khan’s release. Party spokesperson Sheikh Waqqas Akram appreciated Grenell’s advocacy for human rights, stating, “When someone supports justice and human rights, it is always welcome.”

Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI chairman, emphasized that the party seeks Imran’s release through legal and constitutional means. “We neither request nor expect foreign interference but appreciate the support for justice,” he said.

Skepticism from Other Circles

However, not everyone is optimistic about the impact of Grenell’s remarks. Hussain Haqqani, Pakistan’s former ambassador to the US, cautioned that such statements should not be mistaken for formal policy shifts. “These are personal opinions that may not necessarily translate into actionable policies,” he said.

As PTI supporters rally behind Grenell’s comments, questions remain about whether his views reflect broader Trump administration policy or are merely personal observations. Regardless, his vocal support for Imran Khan has provided a much-needed morale boost for the opposition party and its supporters.