Warns of Economic Collapse and War Clouds, TTAP Slams Govt

On Sunday, February 22, 2026, leaders of the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP) held a high-stakes press conference in Islamabad. The alliance launched a comprehensive critique of the government’s performance, ranging from soaring poverty rates to the dangerous escalation of regional tensions.

1. Economic Crisis: “Poverty at a 21-Year High”

Former KP Finance Minister Taimur Khan Jhagra presented a grim picture of the national economy, challenging the government’s recovery narrative:

• Poverty Surge: Jhagra noted that people living below the poverty line rose from 22% in 2018 to 29% in 2026, with the gap between rich and poor widening to 32.7%.
• Provincial Failure: He claimed poverty had increased by 41% in Punjab and 33% in Sindh—the highest spikes in over a decade.
• Elite Privilege: Jhagra alleged that while the public suffers, Punjab’s top bureaucrats (IG and Chief Secretary) were recently provided luxury 4500cc vehicles worth Rs 110 million each.

2. Foreign Policy: The “Iraq-Style” Build-up

Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar expressed grave concerns regarding the U.S.-Iran standoff and Pakistan’s alignment:

• War Footing: Khokhar claimed the U.S. naval deployment against Iran is now equal to the forces gathered before the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
• Board of Peace Critique: He questioned why Pakistan attended Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” summit when China stayed away. He cited The Guardian, labeling the summit a gathering of “dictators and monarchies.”
• The Roosevelt Hotel Deal: Khokhar alleged that Pakistan’s participation in the Washington summit was immediately followed by a “secret deal” regarding the Roosevelt Hotel in New York, demanding the government reveal the terms of the agreement.

3. Security & Terrorism

While criticizing the government’s “tit-for-tat” airstrikes in Afghanistan, the TTAP leaders took a firm stance on internal security:

• Counter-Terrorism: Khokhar stated the government must strictly deal with the BLA and TTP.
• Dialogue with Neighbors: Regarding the Feb 22 airstrikes in Afghanistan, the alliance urged the government to prioritize dialogue over military escalations that risk regional stability.

4. Imran Khan’s Health: The “Second Injection”

TTAP Spokesperson Akhunzada Hussain Yousafzai provided a critical update on the incarcerated PTI founder:

• Medical Timeline: He revealed that Imran Khan is scheduled to receive a second medical injection (linked to his ongoing treatment) on February 24 or 25.
• Demand for Shifa: The alliance demanded that Khan be shifted to Shifa International Hospital for the procedure, in the presence of his family and personal physician, Dr. Asim.

Summary of TTAP Demands

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