Leaked Diplomatic Cable Claims US Role in Imran Khan Ouster

Leaked diplomatic information has reportedly suggested that the United States played a role in the removal of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. The document, published by investigative outlet Drop Site, claims that in April 2022 a no-confidence motion was moved against Imran Khan in Pakistan’s parliament. It further alleges that during a meeting between Pakistan’s then-ambassador Asad Majeed Khan and US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu, discussions were held suggesting that Imran Khan should be removed and even imprisoned to strengthen US–Pakistan relations.

Following these developments, Imran Khan was ousted from power and Shehbaz Sharif became the Prime Minister. The leaked cable also suggests that Imran Khan’s neutral stance on the Russia–Ukraine war contributed to US dissatisfaction. Prior to his removal, Imran Khan had held large rallies accusing foreign powers of conspiring with local actors against him. Both the Pakistani government and the United States have denied these allegations. Later, Imran Khan was convicted in the Toshakhana case and has remained in prison since then.