Leaked Pakistan ‘Cipher’ Revives Claims of US Role In Imran Khan’s Ouster

A leaked diplomatic “cipher” has once again sparked political controversy in Pakistan by reviving claims that the United States may have played a role in the removal of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from office in 2022.

The issue centers around a classified diplomatic communication, commonly referred to as the “cipher,” which supporters of Imran Khan have long claimed contained evidence of foreign pressure aimed at removing his government. The latest leak has reignited debate across Pakistan’s political landscape and renewed accusations involving foreign interference and domestic political influence.

Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, have repeatedly alleged that powerful international actors, including officials linked to the United States, were unhappy with Khan’s foreign policy positions and supported efforts to remove him through a parliamentary no-confidence vote. Khan was removed from office in April 2022 after losing that vote in Pakistan’s National Assembly.

According to reports surrounding the leaked document, conversations between Pakistani and American officials allegedly included concerns over Pakistan’s foreign policy direction during Khan’s leadership. Supporters of Khan argue that the language used in the communication suggests indirect pressure connected to political developments inside Pakistan.

However, U.S. officials have consistently denied any involvement in Pakistan’s internal politics or Khan’s removal. Washington has repeatedly rejected allegations of conspiracy and stated that political changes in Pakistan were part of the country’s constitutional and democratic process.

Pakistan’s former coalition government and political opponents of Khan have also denied claims of foreign-backed regime change. Critics argue that Khan lost power because of domestic political instability, economic problems, and declining parliamentary support rather than international interference.

The leaked cipher controversy has remained one of the most politically sensitive issues in Pakistan over the past several years. It has fueled deep divisions between Khan’s supporters, the military establishment, opposition parties, and government institutions.

Analysts say the renewed debate could further increase political tensions in Pakistan at a time when the country is already facing economic challenges, security concerns, and political uncertainty. The issue may also affect public trust in state institutions and foreign relations discussions ahead of future political developments.

The controversy has once again drawn attention to Pakistan’s complex relationship with the United States, which has historically included cooperation on security, military, and regional issues while also experiencing periods of diplomatic tension.

Political observers believe the leaked document will continue to dominate national debate as different political groups attempt to shape public opinion over the events that led to Imran Khan’s removal from power. Meanwhile, questions surrounding the authenticity, interpretation, and political impact of the cipher remain heavily disputed.