# Pak U-turn on PoK protesters: From ‘enemies’ to ‘patriotic brothers’

2026-08-09T11:40:30+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Pakistan's PML-N, led by Shehbaz Sharif, has dramatically reversed its stance on protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Adviser Rana Sanaullah on Saturday called them 'patriotic brothers' and promised talks. Just days earlier, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif had labelled them 'enemies' and likened them to India. The shift comes after JAAC-led protests since June drew crackdowns and global concern.

## Coverage

- ndtv.com <https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/pok-shehbaz-sharifs-party-on-back-foot-in-pok-calls-protesters-patriots-11886061#publisher=newsstand>
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/from-enemies-to-patriotic-brothers-pakistan-changes-stance-on-pok-protesters-ahead-of-polls/articleshow/133066422.cms>

Tags: crackdown, Pakistan politics, PoK, protests, Shehbaz Sharif, Tehrik-e Taliban
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