Talha Saeed Fumes at Bilawal Bhutto Over Hafiz Saeed Extradition Remark

Islamabad, July 6, 2025 – Talha Saeed, son of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed, has launched a scathing attack on Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, after the former foreign minister reportedly stated that Pakistan would not oppose the extradition of the UN-designated terrorist.

Talha, who is himself facing sanctions and international scrutiny, reacted strongly to Bilawal’s remarks, calling them a betrayal of Pakistan’s ideological stance and warning of “serious consequences” if such sentiments are entertained officially.

Controversial Statement Triggers Backlash

Bilawal Bhutto, during a recent media interaction, had stated that Pakistan was not unopposed to the idea of handing over Hafiz Saeed, should the legal process warrant it. While he clarified that any such move would follow due legal procedures, the political and ideological right wing in Pakistan reacted sharply—with Talha Saeed emerging as one of the loudest voices.

Talha accused Bilawal of “appeasing foreign powers” and “compromising Pakistan’s sovereignty”, claiming that his father has been a “victim of international pressure” rather than a proven terrorist.

Hafiz Saeed’s International Profile

Hafiz Saeed, mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has been designated a global terrorist by the United Nations and the United States. He is currently serving a prison sentence in Pakistan on terror-financing charges but remains a symbolic figurehead for extremist elements.

Calls for his extradition to India have been long-standing, but Pakistan has resisted such efforts, citing domestic legal constraints and lack of bilateral trust.

Political Repercussions Within Pakistan

Talha’s fiery response may deepen the divide between radical factions and mainstream political voices in Pakistan. While Bilawal represents a relatively liberal, internationalist perspective, voices like Talha’s reflect entrenched ideological rigidity within parts of the country.

Analysts warn that such internal discord could complicate Pakistan’s diplomatic image, especially at a time when the country seeks to reset ties with key global players and negotiate economic relief.