Escalating Tensions: Israel's Criticism of Pakistan's Defence Minister

Israel has condemned remarks by Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, which called for Israel's destruction and labeled it as a 'curse for humanity'. The controversy arises amid Pakistan's role as a mediator in peace talks between the US and Iran, casting doubt on its neutrality.

In a rising diplomatic confrontation, Israel has vehemently criticized remarks made by Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, which advocated for Israel's annihilation and labeled the nation as a 'curse for humanity'.

The Israeli Prime Minister's Office expressed profound concern about these statements, highlighting the untenable nature of such rhetoric from a government that positions itself as a neutral facilitator for peace negotiations.

This incident has emerged at a critical juncture as Pakistan hosts peace talks between the US and Iran, with Israel questioning its role as a balanced mediator. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar denounced Asif's comments as 'blatant antisemitic blood libels'.

(With inputs from agencies.)