Wed Nov 27 10:37:11 UTC 2024: ## Islamabad Sees Deadly Clashes as Crackdown on Khan Supporters Ensues

**ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN** – A violent crackdown on thousands of supporters of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan left six dead and over 4,000 arrested in Islamabad on Tuesday. Security forces launched a midnight operation to disperse protesters who had breached security barricades and stormed the high-security Red Zone, home to government buildings and embassies.

The clashes, involving tear gas and gunfire, erupted as supporters of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party continued their “long march” demanding his release from prison. Four security personnel and two PTI supporters perished in the violence, with several deaths attributed to a vehicle plowing into a crowd. A police officer was killed in a separate incident.

The government, led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, eventually regained control of the Red Zone, but the area remains under heavy military presence. D-Chowk, currently hosting Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, is also under military control.

Khan, facing over 150 criminal charges which his party claims are politically motivated, has been imprisoned for over a year. His wife, Bushra Bibi, initially led the demonstrations but fled as security forces moved in. Protesters, some vowing to remain until Khan’s release, engaged in fierce confrontations with police.

The government’s response has been severe. Authorities have arrested thousands, suspended mobile and internet services in parts of the country, and blocked access to social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), even through VPNs. A court ban on public rallies in Islamabad and roadblocks further restrict movement. Educational institutions remain closed.

The unrest has significantly impacted Pakistan’s already fragile economy. The Pakistan Stock Exchange reportedly lost over $1.7 billion on Tuesday, reflecting investor concerns. Economist Mohammed Sohail of Topline Securities cited rising political tensions as devastating for the economy.

Information Minister Atta Tarar accused Bushra Bibi of inciting violence, while reiterating that Khan’s release can only be ordered by the courts. The government’s actions, however, have only deepened the divide between the ruling party and PTI supporters, highlighting a volatile political climate and widespread public discontent.

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