Michael Rubin, a former Pentagon official, has levied harsh criticism against Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, drawing a comparison to Osama bin Laden. The remarks stem from Munir’s recent nuclear-related statements made during a U.S. visit. Rubin described Pakistan’s behavior as that of a “chaotic nation,” accusing it of utilizing aggressive language. He connected Munir’s statements to the extremist ideology of the Islamic State, associating him with bin Laden, the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks. The controversy erupted when Munir allegedly threatened that Pakistan would take down half the world if it were to collapse. This comment was reportedly made at a meeting in Tampa, Florida, attended by US military officials. India condemned the nuclear threat. Rubin, while speaking to news agency ANI, said that such threats are unacceptable on American soil and can lead to extremist groups misusing nuclear weapons. He argued that Pakistan’s challenges go far beyond routine diplomatic disputes. “Americans usually look at terrorism with a view of complaint or pain, but they do not understand the ideology of terrorists. Asim Munir is Osama bin Laden wearing a suit,” he said. Rubin stated that Munir’s remarks raise questions about Pakistan’s state-institutional duties. He suggested that the global community consider a “controlled disintegration” of Pakistan, potentially including supporting independence movements in regions like Balochistan. He expressed support for potential military intervention to safeguard Pakistan’s nuclear weapons. He stated that Pakistan should not retain its status as a “Major Non-NATO Ally” and called for Asim Munir to be declared persona non grata in the US. Rubin demanded that until Pakistan clarifies its position and apologizes, no Pakistani official should be permitted to enter the US.
