Jewish writer says Imran Khan could normalise Pakistan-Israel relations

Jewish writer and political scientist Aynur Bashirova said that former prime minister Imran Khan could play a crucial role in normalising relations between Pakistan and Israel.

She shared her views in a blog published by the Times of Israel, titled "An Unlikely Ally: How Imran Khan Could Shape Israeli-Pakistani Relations",

In the article, Bashirova argued that Khan's pragmatic approach to foreign policy, combined with his close relationship with the Goldsmith family and Western elites, could lead to a reevaluation of Pakistan's traditional stance on Israel.

"Imran Khan's tenure was marked by a pragmatic approach to foreign relations, often characterized by a balancing act between public rhetoric and behind-the-scenes diplomacy," she wrote.

"This approach suggests that Khan may have been more open to reevaluating Pakistan's position on Israel than his public statements indicated.

"Khan’s support for Zac Goldsmith in the London mayoral election, even against a fellow Muslim candidate, Sadiq Khan, underscores his loyalty to the family and their broader network, which in turn have supported him in the past."

She also claimed citing reports that Imran Khan had "sent messages to Israeli officials through the Goldsmith family, signaling a potential willingness to consider normalising relations between Pakistan and Israel and his willingness to moderate the religious discourse in Pakistan."

"If these reports are accurate, they suggest a level of flexibility in Khan’s approach to Israel that goes beyond the traditional Pakistani stance. This potential willingness to engage with Israel could be seen as a strategic move to align Pakistan’s foreign policy with the changing dynamics of the Middle East," the writer added.

Bashirova, in her writeup, also highlighted Khan's alleged position as a potential mediator between Israel and Muslim states, given his Western education and ability to navigate different cultural and political spheres.

"Khan's ability to bridge gaps between the West and the Islamic world could theoretically allow him to play a similar role in Israeli-Pakistani relations, if he were to return to power," she noted.

"His personal relationships and strategic outlook could be leveraged to mediate between Israel and other Muslim-majority countries, contributing to a broader regional realignment."

However, Bashirova acknowledged that any attempt by Khan to shift Pakistan's stance on Israel would face significant challenges, including opposition from religious organisations and public opinion. 

Despite these challenges, she claimed that Khan's willingness to challenge the status quo and his strategic thinking could lead to a new era of relations between Israel and the broader Islamic world.

"Israel and its allies must do whatever they can to ensure that Imran Khan is free again to participate in Pakistani politics and be the voice that channels moderation," Bashirova concluded.