Washington: Richard Grenell, the incoming envoy for special missions under US President-elect Donald Trump, has called for the release of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently detained on corruption charges.

Speaking in an interview with Newsmax, Grenell highlighted the improved US-Pakistan relations during Trump’s first term, attributing this to Khan’s leadership. He described Khan as a non-traditional politician and an "outsider," similar in approach to Trump.

"We had a much better relationship with Pakistan during the Trump administration when Imran Khan was the leader. He wasn’t a career politician but a former cricket captain who communicated in common-sense language," Grenell remarked. He emphasized the strong rapport between Trump and Khan during that period.

Grenell expressed concerns over what he perceived as politically motivated charges against Khan, drawing parallels to former President Trump's legal battles. "Khan is in prison, facing allegations orchestrated by the ruling party, much like the false allegations against President Trump," he said.

Grenell's remarks follow his criticism of the US State Department's response to Pakistan's political situation. On Tuesday, he criticized State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller for a delayed and inadequate statement on the sentencing of Pakistani civilians in military tribunals. Responding to Miller’s comments, Grenell stated on X (formerly Twitter), "You are late. And this is too little and too weak. Speak normally. Free Imran Khan."

Miller had earlier expressed concern about military tribunal sentencing in Pakistan, urging authorities to ensure fair trials and respect for due process. Grenell, however, dismissed the statement as insufficient.

The comments from Trump’s envoy come as Pakistan faces ongoing political and judicial crises, with Khan’s detention remaining a flashpoint for national and international attention. The PTI founder and former cricket star remains a polarizing figure in Pakistani politics, with calls for his release growing louder among his supporters and international observers.