WASHINGTON – Imran Khan’s conviction in a £190 million corruption case has sparked diplomatic tensions, as allies of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump called for the release of the former cricketer-turned-politician, who spent 1.5 years in jail,
The 72-year-old Khan’s lengthy prison sentence in the high-profile case has deepened divisions with senior figures in the Trump administration. The ruling has raised tensions ahead of Trump’s inauguration, with key figures like Richard Grenell and Matt Gaetz pushing for Khan’s release. Grenell, who is set to become Trump’s special envoy for missions, and Gaetz, a former Attorney General candidate, have both strongly supported Khan.
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The latest sentence in the Al Qadir Trust case has further strained relations between Pakistan’s current government and Trump’s aides, who have criticized the handling of the case. Khan, already facing multiple legal challenges since his removal from office, has seen protests from his supporters and party leaders in response to the ruling.
Trump aides’ support for the opposition protests in Pakistan has led to mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a publicity move, while others caution it could lead to significant consequences. Following his claims that the U.S. was behind his ouster, Khan had previously reversed his stance, seeking to rebuild relations with Washington.
