British newspaper Guardian declares founder PTI as Taliban friend.

A recent report by the British newspaper The Guardian has sparked controversy by labeling the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, as “Taliban-friendly.” This characterization has reignited debates about Khan’s past statements and his government’s approach toward the Taliban, particularly during his tenure as Pakistan’s Prime Minister. The Guardian highlighted Khan’s public praise for the Taliban’s actions in Afghanistan, where he once referred to their takeover of Kabul as “breaking the chains of slavery,” a statement that has been widely criticized and interpreted as supportive of the Taliban’s ideological stance.

This label comes amid ongoing concerns about Pakistan’s complex relationship with the Taliban, with the country’s establishment often accused of maintaining ties with the group for strategic reasons. These ties have drawn international scrutiny, particularly from Western nations wary of the implications for regional stability and counter-terrorism efforts.

The Guardian’s portrayal of Khan as a “friend” of the Taliban could further strain his political standing, especially as PTI navigates its relations with both the military establishment and international observers. The report underscores the enduring controversies surrounding Pakistan’s policy decisions and the long-term implications of its involvement in Afghanistan.