Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif said in a televised interview on Pakistan's largest television channel, Geo, on Thursday that the United States should “kidnap” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and bring him to court.
Asif added that Turkey could also abduct Netanyahu, whom he called “the worst criminal of humanity,” asserting that the International Criminal Court had acted against him.
The comments were made during a live studio segment, which ended with the newscaster saying Asif would not remain on air after the break.
Asif’s comments came following the US capture of Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro, and he stated that he would support the capture of Netanyahu.
“Turkey may abduct Netanyahu, and we Pakistanis are praying for it,” he said.
Asif used ICC warrants to justify capture of Netanyahu
Asif repeatedly referred to the ICC as the basis for his claims, saying the court had acted against Netanyahu and that nations should enforce justice.
The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024, a move that has remained the focus of legal battles through 2025.
In the interview, Asif speculated about Turkey “kidnapping” Netanyahu and taking him to Ankara. His remarks come after a severe downturn in Israel–Turkey ties since 2024, including trade freezes and airspace closures, with analysts warning of a prolonged rupture.