Wed Nov 27 01:08:25 UTC 2024: ## Islamabad Under Siege: Violent Clashes Erupt as Protesters Demand Khan’s Release

**ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN** – Violent clashes erupted in Islamabad on Tuesday as thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan stormed security barriers and advanced on the capital’s central square, D-Chowk. Security forces responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, leaving at least six security personnel dead and dozens injured.

Protesters, many wielding slingshots and sticks, have been converging on Islamabad since Sunday, defying a government-imposed lockdown and internet disruptions. The demonstrations are demanding Khan’s release from prison, the revocation of the 26th Amendment, the restoration of a “stolen mandate,” and the release of all political prisoners. Khan, arrested on corruption charges, remains in detention despite a previous Supreme Court-ordered release. The PTI claims the charges are politically motivated.

The government invoked Article 245 of the constitution, deploying paramilitary forces and police in a bid to quell the unrest. While the army has not yet been directly involved, the situation has been described as a “virtual siege” by Al Jazeera. The government also attempted negotiations, suggesting an alternative protest location, but these efforts failed.

The protests come amidst a visit from Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko, who arrived in Pakistan on Monday. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the protesters, stating their actions seek “bloodshed, not revolution.” The unrest has led to the closure of schools in Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi. The widespread internet disruptions, including restrictions on WhatsApp, have further hampered communication and information dissemination. The situation remains highly volatile.

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