ISLAMABAD – Richard Grenell, a close ally of US President-elect Donald Trump, continues to make headlines with his bombshell statements about incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan – who remained behind bars for one and half years.
Grennel again made public call for release of Khan, amid growing tensions in Pakistan, as authorities cracked down on beleaguered PTI.
The close ally of upcoming US President urged Islamabad to release Imran Khan, asserting that the charges against him were politically motivated and false.
In an interview with US media outlet, he emphasized that ties between Islamabad and Washington were stronger during PTI government, describing Imran Khan as an “outsider,” who resonated well with Trump. He was of view that this unique dynamic forged strong bond between two sides.
He further compared Imran Khan’s imprisonment and that of President Trump, both of whom, he argued, faced similar allegations of corruption used by their respective governments to undermine their political influence.
The call for Imran Khan’s release has sparked debate in Pakistan, with PTI supporters praising Grenell’s stance, while the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has urged United States to respect Pakistan’s sovereignty and internal matters.
Grenell has held several prominent roles in the Trump administration, including Acting Director of National Intelligence and Special Envoy for Serbia-Kosovo peace negotiations. His intervention in the Imran Khan case highlights ongoing international interest in Pakistan’s political landscape.
Trump’s aide Richard Grenell’s tweet calling for Imran Khan’s release dismissed by Pakistani govt
