Pakistani security forces launched a large-scale midnight operation to disperse thousands of supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. The protests escalated into violent clashes, resulting in at least seven deaths, including a police officer and security personnel, and the arrest of nearly 4,000 demonstrators.

Protesters Breach High-Security Zone

The unrest unfolded as members of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party stormed security barriers, including shipping containers, to reach Islamabad’s high-security Red Zone, home to government offices and embassies. Despite government warnings, protesters, led by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, and key aide Ali Amin Gandapur, pushed into the fortified area.

The Red Zone was eventually cleared, according to Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who also confirmed that PTI leaders had vacated the protest site.

Tear Gas, Gunfire, and Mass Arrests

The police raid involved extensive use of tear gas and gunfire to suppress the protests. PTI claimed that around 100 people sustained gunshot injuries, though this figure remains unverified. Islamabad remained tense, with major roads sealed by concrete barriers and containers, heavy police deployments, and a three-day lockdown imposed to deter protesters.

Escalating Tensions and Shutdown

The situation in Islamabad worsened as authorities suspended mobile data services for four consecutive days and restricted access to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Educational institutions were closed amid fears of further violence.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the clashes, highlighting the toll on security forces.

Imran Khan’s Message from Prison

Imran Khan, imprisoned for over a year and facing more than 150 criminal charges his party calls politically motivated, addressed his supporters through social media. He encouraged them to remain steadfast, urging, “Fight until the last ball is bowled. We will not back down until our demands are met.”

He also criticized attempts to try him in military courts, stating, “Do what you must; I will not back down from my stance.” Khan’s supporters, led by Bushra Bibi, vowed to remain at the protest site until his release.

Imran Khan X post

Bushra Bibi Leads the Rally

Addressing the crowd at D-Chowk, Bushra Bibi pledged her commitment to the cause, declaring she would be the last to leave the site if Khan was not freed. “Muslims don’t hit other Muslims, so then why are you shelling us?” she questioned, criticizing the government’s use of force.

PTI Leaders Appeal for Restraint

PTI leaders, including barrister Gohar Khan, called for peaceful protests and urged the government to stop firing on demonstrators. “I appeal to all PTI workers to remain peaceful. We are hopeful of Imran Khan’s early release, InshaAllah,” Gohar stated on X.

Government’s Position

The government maintains that only the courts can decide Khan’s fate. Imran Khan was removed from office in 2022 through a no-confidence vote in parliament, a move supported by opposition parties.

As Islamabad continues to grapple with political unrest, the path to resolving tensions remains uncertain. Both sides appear entrenched, with PTI refusing to back down and the government enforcing strict measures to maintain control.

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