PTI Demonstrations
WASHINGTON: Amid ongoing clashes between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in Islamabad, the United States has called for restraint from both sides.
The situation has escalated as PTI supporters continue their march towards the federal capital, demanding the release of their founder, Imran Khan.
During a press briefing, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and respecting human rights.
“We call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and to ensure respect for Pakistan’s laws and constitution as they work to maintain law and order,” he said. The spokesperson also urged the protesters to “demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence.”
The clashes have already resulted in significant casualties. Two police personnel, including constable Muhammad Mubashir Bilal, were martyred in confrontations with protesters.
Additionally, four Rangers personnel lost their lives after being run over by a vehicle on Srinagar Highway, according to security sources. These incidents have further heightened tensions in the capital.
PTI workers have defied roadblocks and other security measures imposed by the government, advancing towards Islamabad in various convoys.
Sporadic clashes between the protesters and police have been marked by the use of tear gas shelling by law enforcement to deter the marchers.
Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI founder Imran Khan, is leading one of the protest convoys and has insisted on reaching D-Chowk despite warnings from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
The federal government has responded by deploying Pakistan Army troops in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution to maintain order.
The US has taken an active interest in these events, with over 60 members of the House of Representatives previously writing to President Joe Biden in October, urging him to call for Imran Khan’s release.
This was followed by another letter earlier this month from 46 US Congress members advocating for Khan’s immediate release.
The current unrest underscores the growing political tensions in Pakistan and the international community’s concern over the evolving situation.
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