“Islamic touch:” analysts react to Bushra Bibi’s claim about Saudi Arabia

Political analysts raised concerns over the veracity of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi’s, claims regarding Saudi Arabia, warning that her remarks could strain Pakistan's relations with Riyadh.

In a video statement released on Thursday, Bushra Bibi alleged that when Imran Khan visited Medina barefoot and returned, former Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa began receiving critical calls.

According to her, Bajwa was told, "Who is this person you have brought? We don't want such people."

She further claimed that the Saudi officials remarked, "We are trying to abolish Sharia in the country, and you have brought such a person," adding that this marked the beginning of a campaign to discredit Imran Khan and his family, with the PTI founder being labeled a “Jewish agent.”

Sources close to General (retired) Qamar Javed Bajwa denied these allegations.

Bushra Bibi's statement sparked a media storm, with many political commentators describing it as both "shocking" and "dubious."

They pointed out that Imran Khan himself had never made such claims in the past.

Veteran journalist Nusrat Javed, citing a “highly reliable source,” claimed that Saudi officials were initially surprised by Bushra Bibi’s video and even suspected it to be AI-generated. 

"They took time to verify its authenticity, but the damage, as they say, is now done," he noted.

Meanwhile, journalist Awais Salim pointed out that Imran Khan made his first official visit to Saudi Arabia after becoming Prime Minister in 2018, followed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to Pakistan in October 2019. 

Both leaders reportedly enjoyed a cordial relationship. Salim argued that Bushra Bibi's claims do not align with the historical timeline of events, making any suggestion of Saudi resentment appear unreasonable.

Analysts have warned that such unsubstantiated claims could undermine Pakistan's longstanding ties with Saudi Arabia, a relationship that holds significant strategic and economic importance.