Washington: Leaked emails have revealed that former prime minister Imran Khan was discussed in the same context as some of the world’s most powerful leaders, including Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping, and Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The emails, released by the US House Oversight Committee and reported by Dawn News, date back to July 31, 2018, just days after Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf secured victory in the general elections. In the exchange, Jeffrey Epstein described Khan as “really bad news” and a “major threat to peace,” placing him in comparison with global heavyweights.
Although Epstein’s remarks were negative, the fact that Khan was mentioned alongside leaders of nuclear powers and major economies highlights his international relevance and growing influence at the time. Epstein noted Khan’s ability to rally crowds as a “cult of personality,” referencing his background as Pakistan’s cricket captain and his rise to political leadership.
The emails also touched on Khan’s personal life, including his marriages and social connections, but observers point out that the broader context shows how his political ascent was being closely watched internationally.
The latest batch of emails illustrates Epstein’s wide network of contacts and his commentary on global politics, which included references to Imran Khan. The revelations have resurfaced on social media, with users sharing old photographs of Khan with British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell at a 1990 London party.
US House of Representatives is expected to vote on further disclosure of Epstein’s communications, which may shed more light on his political observations and connection.