India, Jan. 9 -- Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has sparked controversy by saying that the United States should "kidnap" Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if it truly believes in humanity, drawing a parallel with the recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by US forces.

He described the Israeli leader as the "worst criminal of humanity" and accused Israel of committing unprecedented atrocities against Palestinians in Gaza.

Asif also appeared to hint at accountability for countries backing Israel, beginning a remark with, "And what does the law say about those who support such criminals.".

Mir later said that Asif would not continue on the programme after the break.

Pakistan has never recognised Israel a...