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Ahsan Iqbal Urges Calm After Brief Disruption During Live ARY News Interview
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal dismisses political speculation over a brief disruption during a live ARY News interview, saying it was caused by a domestic situation and urging people to avoid unnecessary politicisation.
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by Muhammad Hashir
2025-12-26
Ahsan Iqbal Urges Calm After Brief Disruption During Live ARY News Interview

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has clarified the circumstances surrounding a brief disruption during his live interview on ARY News, urging the public and political circles to avoid unnecessary politicisation of the incident.

On Thursday night, the minister appeared via video link on ARY News’ programme 11th Hour, hosted by Waseem Badami. While discussing talks between the government and the opposition, the conversation was abruptly interrupted when an unseen individual shouted, “Shut this,” in an aggressive tone, following which the minister’s call was disconnected.

The sudden disruption prompted the host to express concern on air, saying he hoped the minister was safe and unsure about what had just occurred.

Ahsan Iqbal later rejoined the programme and assured viewers that everything was fine. However, the incident quickly sparked speculation on social media, with some users suggesting that the disruption may have been politically motivated.

Addressing the issue on social media platform X early Friday morning, the planning minister clarified that the interruption had no political background. “A brief disruption occurred during a live broadcast when someone nearby, having an argument, was unaware that I was live on air,” he wrote. He added that he rejoined the interview shortly afterwards and appealed to the public to avoid politicising the matter.

Journalist Ajmal Jami also shared details after speaking with the minister, stating that there was a family gathering at Iqbal’s Islamabad residence at the time of the interview and children had unexpectedly entered his study, causing the brief disturbance.

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar corroborated the account, confirming that children had run into the study unexpectedly and that the situation was entirely normal. “All is well, and he has rejoined the show,” Tarar said.

The clarification has put to rest speculation surrounding the incident, with the government reiterating that there was no political pressure or interference involved.
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