RAWALPINDI — Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Friday strongly condemned the anti-army rhetoric of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, calling him a “mentally ill person” whose actions constitute a “serious national security threat.”
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Addressing a two-hour press conference, the military spokesperson accused the former prime minister of collaborating with external elements, spreading disinformation, provoking unrest, and persistently targeting Pakistan Army and its leadership. He said the briefing aimed to highlight internal national security challenges, emphasizing that nothing is above the state of Pakistan.
Lt Gen Chaudhry described what he called a “delusional mindset” of the jailed PTI leader, asserting that his ego-driven actions and narratives have evolved into a national security threat. He claimed Imran Khan promotes anti-army messaging from Adiala Jail, using social media to coordinate troll activity, often amplified by Indian, Afghan, and international outlets.
The ISPR chief also cited examples of the PTI founder’s statements, including discouraging party members from visiting military institutions like the National Defence University (NDU) or engaging with ISPR, labeling them as traitors. He warned that anyone attacking the armed forces under political pretexts should expect a response.
“Freedom of expression under Article 19 has limits,” Lt Gen Chaudhry said, stressing that criticism cannot compromise national security. He accused Imran Khan of creating narratives to halt remittances, weaken the economy, and target military leadership, noting that such actions undermine Pakistan’s sovereignty and stability.
Addressing media responsibility, he urged journalists to focus on real national issues such as floodwater management, water storage, population pressures, and food security, rather than amplifying political disinformation.
Lt Gen Chaudhry reaffirmed that the Pakistan Army functions under civilian authority and vowed to protect the institution and the state from any attempts to create a rift between the military and the public. “We are all Bunyan-um-Marsoos — a solid, united structure. Pakistan will remain, and the Pakistan Army will remain,” he concluded.
