Jailed former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan would not seek confrontation with the military or army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir if released, according to close aide and PTI spokesperson Zulfiqar Bukhari. The comments were published on August 21, 2026, after Pakistan’s Supreme Court ordered on Tuesday that Khan be moved from prison to a private hospital for treatment within 48 hours.

Speaking to Reuters, Bukhari said Khan would control his anger and suffering and avoid conflict with military leaders in the national interest. He described Asim Munir as Pakistan’s most powerful person and said the army chief could create a path for political prisoners to be freed. Analysts viewed the remarks as a potentially important signal of reduced tension between the military and Khan’s party.

The government and military did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The military has previously said it does not interfere in politics, while the government says Khan’s cases are matters for the courts. Bukhari said no talks with the military are underway, and PTI remains committed to nationwide protests and marches on September 27.