An article in The Jerusalem Post claims that Imran Khan signaled support for normalizing relations between Pakistan and Israel. However, the military’s strong opposition remains a significant obstacle to this shift.
Harry Richer, a foreign policy analyst and former aide to a UK Parliament member, shared this view in an opinion piece. Richer examined the possibility of normalizing ties between Israel and Muslim countries.
According to Richer, Pakistan has maintained a pro-Palestinian stance throughout its history, but there have been occasional signs of a possible shift towards improving relations with Israel.
“Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite his vocal criticism of Israeli policies, hinted at Pakistan’s need to shape its independent foreign policy. This was especially relevant when other Muslim countries began normalizing ties with Israel for their interests,” the article stated.
Richer emphasized that Pakistan’s case is unique. Despite its long-standing pro-Palestinian position, recent years have seen subtle indications of interest in better relations with Israel. Khan hinted at this need during his tenure, particularly as other Muslim nations normalized ties with Israel. With his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), securing 93 seats in the National Assembly in recent elections, Khan or another similarly pragmatic leader could reevaluate Pakistan’s stance towards Israel. This is especially critical as the country faces deep economic crises.
For Pakistan, normalizing ties with Israel could bring substantial economic benefits, including technological assistance in agriculture, cybersecurity, and defense, as well as potential financial investments. In 2022, trade between Israel and the UAE surged by 124%, reaching $2.59 billion, highlighting the possible advantages.
Diversifying Pakistan’s foreign policy could also offer strategic advantages as it manages its complex relations with India and Afghanistan. However, a significant shift within Pakistan’s military, which has long resisted normalization with Israel, would be necessary for any progress. A leadership change might be required to overcome these barriers, and figures like Khan could play a key role in reshaping public opinion and military policy as regional dynamics evolve.
