Secret Deal Between Pakistan and Israel: A Betrayal of Public Trust?
Tariq Bhat
A Nation on Edge
Israeli newspaper has reported claims from a group of Pakistanis who visited Israel, alleging that the Pakistani government has secretly been fostering ties with the Israeli state. According to these claims, the government of Pakistan has deliberately suppressed anti-Israel rallies over the past year, silencing voices that have historically stood in solidarity with Palestinians. This news has sparked outrage among citizens, especially on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where users demand answers from key figures such as Army Chief General Asim Munir.
As per sources, top Pakistani politicians and journalists have confirmed to ANN News that the current government has taken steps to engage Israeli diplomats. Reports suggest that the Prime Minister of Pakistan directly contacted Israeli officials, signaling the new government’s interest in normalizing relations with Israel. This secretive approach is seen by many as a betrayal of the country’s longstanding stance on the Palestinian issue.
One of the most damning allegations is that the government intentionally halted large-scale anti-Israel protests, a stark departure from the vibrant demonstrations witnessed in the past. Critics argue that this move undermines the democratic right of citizens to express dissent and support for oppressed communities.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan, known for his firm stance against Israel, has gained significant traction among the masses. His vocal opposition to normalization with Israel resonates with a public that has traditionally supported the Palestinian cause. Meanwhile, the current government’s alleged actions have left it vulnerable to accusations of hypocrisy and betrayal.
Protests in Balochistan and other regions further compound the government’s challenges, with citizens demanding their rights and freedoms. In this volatile environment, reports of secret talks with Israel only serve to exacerbate public anger.
The question on everyone’s mind is whether the Pakistani government, which lacks a clear public mandate, has the right to make such significant foreign policy decisions without consulting its citizens. Public figures and activists have openly questioned the legitimacy of these actions. One notable quote circulating on social media reads:
“عوام کی مرضی کے بغیر، ایک ناجائز حکومت جو فارم 47 کی بدولت بنی ہے جس کے پاس عوامی مینڈیٹ نہیں، اسرائیل سے خفیہ تعلقات قائم کر رہے ہیں؟ جب ہمارے فلسطینی بہن بھائیوں کا خون بہایا جا رہا ہے، ہم کیسے خاموش رہ سکتے ہیں؟”
(“Without public consent, an illegitimate government formed under Form 47, lacking the public mandate, is establishing secret ties with Israel? How can we stay silent when the blood of our Palestinian brothers and sisters is being spilled?”)
Another Activist Remarked
“This secret diplomacy not only betrays Pakistan’s history of supporting Palestine but also exposes the ruling elite’s disregard for public sentiment.”
Pakistan has always been a vocal advocate for the Palestinian cause, consistently opposing Israeli actions in occupied territories. The reports of backchannel talks with Israel come at a time when violence against Palestinians continues unabated. Many fear that normalization with Israel would mean abandoning decades of principled foreign policy.
Pakistan is already grappling with multiple crises—economic instability, political turmoil, and social unrest. Adding secretive foreign policy maneuvers to the mix could have devastating consequences. The government’s silence on these allegations only fuels speculation and mistrust.
As pressure mounts, the government must address the following key questions:
Are the allegations of secret talks with Israel true?
Why has the government suppressed anti-Israel protests?
What is the future of Pakistan’s stance on Palestine?
Will the Army Chief and other key leaders provide clarity on the issue?
Without transparency and accountability, the public’s anger is likely to intensify, further destabilizing an already fragile political landscape.
The secrecy surrounding Pakistan’s alleged rapprochement with Israel represents a serious breach of trust. In a country where public sentiment strongly aligns with the Palestinian cause, any shift in policy must involve open dialogue and democratic processes. The people of Pakistan deserve answers, and they deserve them now. Until then, the words of one protester ring true:
“ہم کسی بھی قیمت پر فلسطین کے خون کے ساتھ غداری برداشت نہیں کریں گے!”
(“We will not tolerate betrayal of Palestine’s blood at any cost!”)