Khawaja Asif: Foreign Bases Serve Israel, Not Muslim Nations
Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has asserted that the foreign military bases operating in the Middle East primarily exist to protect Israeli interests rather than the security of Muslim countries. He made these remarks while speaking at the annual convocation of the University of Central Punjab held in Sialkot on October 31, 2026.
Foreign Military Bases and Security Misconceptions
Addressing the convocation, Asif criticized the longstanding belief within the Islamic world that overseas military installations would guarantee its protection. He emphasized that these bases were perhaps never intended to safeguard Muslim nations but instead serve the strategic aims of foreign powers, particularly to protect Israel.
“Pakistan has shown the Islamic world a new path: foreign military bases cannot protect you,” Asif said, urging Muslim countries to rely on their own capabilities for security.
Pakistan’s Military Strength and Diplomatic Achievements
The minister highlighted Pakistan’s recent military engagements, notably the confrontation with India in Marka-e-Haq, where Pakistan overcame an adversary with significantly greater resources. This successful defense, he noted, has elevated the country’s standing on the international stage.
Credit was given to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for strong leadership during this period, which has led to a new phase in Pakistan’s diplomatic relations and increased international recognition.
Historical Reflections and Curriculum Changes
Khawaja Asif lamented the lack of awareness among younger Pakistanis about the nation’s history, blaming successive governments for manipulating school curricula to suit political agendas. He referenced Pakistan’s involvement in the US-led war against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan, explaining how the country’s historical narrative and religious interpretations were altered to support American interests.
He pointed out that after the Soviet withdrawal, Pakistan was left to face the consequences alone, further complicating the nation’s security landscape.
Asif called for a national effort to correct these distortions in the educational system, stressing the importance of truthful historical teaching for Pakistan’s future.
Why This Matters to Pakistan
Defence Minister Asif’s statements highlight Pakistan’s evolving stance on regional security and foreign policy. By underscoring the limitations of relying on foreign military bases, Pakistan reinforces its commitment to self-reliance in defense and diplomacy. This perspective is critical amid ongoing regional tensions and reflects a broader shift towards greater autonomy and a reevaluation of alliances in the Islamic world. For Pakistani readers, this approach signals a move to prioritize national sovereignty and strategic independence in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
