Ahsan Iqbal Clarifies Disruption During Live Interview

Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has asked the public to avoid unnecessary politicisation after a brief disruption interrupted his live interview on ARY News, which led to widespread speculation on social media.

The incident occurred on Thursday night when Iqbal appeared via video link on ARY News’ talk show 11th Hour, hosted by Waseem Badami. During the discussion on talks between the government and the opposition, the broadcast was suddenly disrupted. A loud voice, not visible on screen, was heard saying “turn this off,” after which the video link was disconnected.

Ahsan Iqbal Clarifies Disruption During Live ARY News Interview

The sudden cutoff prompted concern from the host, who questioned whether the minister was safe. Shortly afterward, Iqbal rejoined the programme and reassured viewers that everything was fine.

Despite this clarification, clips of the moment quickly spread online, with many users speculating that the interruption may have been political or related to security concerns.

Addressing the issue early Friday, Iqbal took to X to explain that the disruption was accidental. He said someone nearby, unaware that he was live on air, was involved in an argument that briefly affected the broadcast. He added that he rejoined the interview soon after and urged people not to give the incident a political angle.

Journalist Ajmal Jami, who also spoke with Iqbal after the show, shared further details, stating that a family gathering was taking place at the minister’s Islamabad residence at the time. According to him, children unexpectedly entered Iqbal’s study, causing the brief commotion.

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar also confirmed the explanation, saying he had personally spoken with Iqbal and that there was no cause for concern.

Officials and journalists have since clarified that the minister was safe and unharmed, and that the interruption was simply a domestic disturbance during a live broadcast rather than a serious or political incident.