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Abhinandan’s Release Was Surrender, Says Khawaja Asif in NA
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif says Pakistan’s 2019 release of Indian pilot Abhinandan was a “surrender,” not a gesture of peace. Adds shame still lingers over the decision.
ND
by News Desk
2025-06-14
Abhinandan’s Release Was Surrender, Says Khawaja Asif in NA

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif termed the 2019 release of captured Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman as “Pakistan’s surrender,” reigniting debate over a decision that had once been hailed internationally as a gesture of peace.

Speaking during a session of the lower house, the senior PML-N leader said, “Sending Abhinandan back to India within 24 hours was not diplomacy — it was surrender.” He claimed that the move, made under the leadership of then Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa in consultation with the then Prime Minister, turned a military victory into a strategic defeat.

He added, “I was ashamed of that decision then, and I am ashamed of it today.”

On February 27, 2019, following Pakistan Air Force’s Operation Swift Retaliation, Indian pilot Abhinandan was taken into custody after his jet was shot down inside Pakistani territory. Within 48 hours, Pakistan handed him over to Indian authorities via the Wagah Border, a move widely praised by international observers for de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations.

However, Khawaja Asif’s remarks suggest that key figures within Pakistan’s political and military circles saw the move as a missed opportunity to assert strength after a successful operation.

The minister didn’t limit his criticism to past military decisions. Turning to foreign policy, he addressed the situation in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israel. “Israel’s hands are drenched in the blood of innocent Palestinians and Muslims. These are not hands we should be shaking — we should be shaking them off,” he declared.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering position on Israel, stating: “We have never recognized Israel, and we still don’t. Those Pakistanis who visited Israel in the past — who sponsored them?”

Touching upon recent regional tensions, Khawaja Asif expressed solidarity with Iran following Israeli strikes on its territory. “Pakistan stands with Iran and will support it at all international forums,” he said.

His speech comes amid growing geopolitical challenges and as Pakistan attempts to recalibrate its national security and foreign policy approach under the new government.

The defense minister’s remarks have sparked strong reactions across the political spectrum, with some praising his candor while others question the timing and intent behind his statements.

 

 
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