Former Pentagon analyst Michael Rubin has issued a blistering critique of Pakistan’s recent nuclear rhetoric, likening Army Chief General Asim Munir to “Osama bin Laden in a suit” after alleged threats made on US soil.
The controversy stems from remarks reportedly made by Gen. Munir during a meeting in Tampa, Florida, where he allegedly warned that if Pakistan “goes down, it would take half the world down” with it. Rubin called the comments “completely unacceptable,” comparing them to statements by ISIS and questioning Pakistan’s ability to act as a responsible state.
Rubin urged Washington to strip Pakistan of its status as a major non-NATO ally, consider designating it a state sponsor of terrorism, and bar Munir from entering the US. He also criticised American officials for not responding immediately to the alleged remarks, saying Munir should have been “escorted to the airport and flown out within 30 minutes.”
Warning that Pakistan’s nuclear threats could embolden extremist groups to “go rogue,” Rubin argued for a “managed decline” of the country, even suggesting future international military intervention to secure its nuclear arsenal.
He further accused President Trump’s engagement with Pakistan of undermining the traditionally strong US-India relationship, while predicting bilateral ties would improve once the current US approach shifts.
Rubin’s comments underscore deepening concerns in Washington over Pakistan’s stability, its nuclear capabilities, and the potential global security risks if such rhetoric continues unchecked.
