Why Are Donald Trump’s Allies Cheering for Pakistan’s Imran Khan?

From Richard Grenell to Matt Gaetz, their comments reflect overseas PTI campaigning for Khan’s release. But analysts are unsure that the strategy will work.

Viral Support

When Richard Grenell, a close confidante of Donald Trump, demanded the release of Pakistan’s jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan last November during protests in Islamabad, the post went viral. Grenell's tweets, including one that compared Khan to Trump, garnered significant attention.

Political Prosecutions

Grenell's tweets, which called for an end to political prosecutions worldwide, were seen as a boost for Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Matt Gaetz, another Trump ally, also voiced support for Khan, amplifying the message.

Skepticism and Irony

Despite the high-profile support, many commentators are skeptical about its impact. There is irony in PTI lobbying the US for help, given their previous accusations against Washington for Khan’s removal.

Complex Relationship

Khan’s government was removed in April 2022 through a parliamentary no-confidence vote. He alleged a US-led conspiracy, which both the US and Pakistani military denied. Since then, Khan has faced numerous charges and convictions, and his party has been under pressure.

US-Pakistan Relations

Relations between Pakistan and the US have marginally improved since Khan’s removal. The Biden administration appointed Donald Blome as US ambassador to Pakistan, and US officials have largely refrained from commenting on Khan’s situation, calling it an internal matter.

Diaspora Advocacy

Influential Pakistani diaspora groups in the US, who support Khan, have campaigned extensively among American politicians. Their efforts led to a US Congress hearing on Pakistan’s democracy and calls for Biden to scrutinize Pakistan’s elections.

Trump’s Influence

Trump, who once criticized Pakistan, later developed a rapport with Khan. However, analysts like Husain Haqqani caution that Pakistan remains a low priority for Trump’s foreign policy, and there is no sign of a broader policy shift.

Key Highlights

• Viral Support: Trump allies like Richard Grenell and Matt Gaetz demand Khan’s release.

• Political Prosecutions: Calls to end political prosecutions worldwide.

• Skepticism: Analysts doubt the impact of US support on Khan’s situation.

• Complex Relationship: Khan’s removal and allegations of a US-led conspiracy.

• Diaspora Advocacy: Pakistani diaspora in the US campaigns for Khan’s release.

• Trump’s Influence: Trump’s rapport with Khan and its limited impact on US policy.
  
  Written by: Hassan Ali (University of the Punjab).