US calls for restraint on both sides as PTI protests escalate

The Biden administration urged Pakistani authorities on Tuesday to respect human rights and called for calm as political protests surged across the country.

US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller emphasised the importance of peaceful demonstrations and restraint on all sides.

“We call on protesters to demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence, and at the same time, we call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms,” Miller said during a press briefing.

The call comes amid escalating protests led by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who demand his release from jail and claim the February election was marred by irregularities. Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, had urged followers to gather in Islamabad to reclaim what he termed a "looted mandate."

On Sunday, demonstrators began their approach to Islamabad, clashing with security forces. The protests turned deadly when at least one police officer was fatally shot, and over 20 others sustained injuries, according to Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

In response, Pakistan has bolstered security in the capital, deploying Rangers and increasing police presence.

Army deployed in Islamabad after security personnel martyred in PTI clashes

In response to escalating security concerns in Islamabad, the Ministry of Interior has announced the deployment of the Pakistan Army under Article 245 of the Constitution.

The move comes amid rising tensions following protests organised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, leading to violent clashes with security forces, Express News reported.

Authorities have issued stringent directives to security personnel, authorising them to take decisive action against agitators and miscreants, including the use of extreme measures such as shooting rioters on sight.

The interior ministry's notification also grants the Pakistan Army the authority to impose curfews in any locality deemed necessary to maintain law and order.

Following a PTI procession from Chungi Number 26 to D-Chowk, heightened security measures were implemented in Islamabad’s red zone, with Rangers personnel stationed at strategic locations.

Rangers personnel martyred

The situation escalated when miscreants rammed a vehicle into Rangers personnel during the protest on Srinagar Highway in Islamabad, resulting in the martyrdom of four Rangers officials and two policemen, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Additionally, a group of armed individuals pelted stones and opened fire on security forces at Chungi No 26 in Rawalpindi, injuring a Ranger who was later transferred to CMH Rawalpindi in critical condition.

In response, security sources confirmed that all necessary measures are being taken to counter any terrorist activities and maintain public safety.