Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has strongly criticised leaders who used derogatory language about the nation’s martyrs and defenders and described them as enemies of Pakistan.

Speaking to the media in Sialkot on Saturday, he said those who cannot even spare the country’s martyrs in their rhetoric have no right to complain, adding that such individuals “are identifiable as enemies of Pakistan” and have no connection with the nation’s soil.

Referring to the media talks of DG ISPR a day ahead, he said the military spokesperson used highly restrained language in his remarks.

Khawaja Asif said that during times of war, Pakistan’s friends and brothers stood by its side, but “one political party did not play that role”.

He questioned why the PTI founder, who comments on every issue, remained silent at that critical time.

“The PTI founder used inappropriate language even during the war,” he remarked.

Asif questioned how such people could call themselves Pakistanis, saying that some individuals within the country did not fulfil their responsibility during the conflict with India.

He asked why the PTI founder did not speak in support of Pakistani soldiers.

He said protests are a political right of a political party, but political leaders must raise their voices for Pakistan’s soldiers and martyrs, not for the Taliban.

The defence minister said politicians were free to pursue their politics, but “they should not challenge Pakistan’s honour and sovereignty.”

He added that if such attitudes persist, then strong language will be used in response.

Asif also criticised the PTI founder’s sister, calling her a non-political figure who made remarks to Indian media that, according to him, “no Pakistani could make.”

He questioned whether anyone could make such statements in the Indian media.