Pakistani security forces launched a midnight operation on November 26 to disperse thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who had gathered in Islamabad demanding his release. The violent “do-or-die” protests, organized by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, resulted in the deaths of two PTI supporters and four security personnel.
Violent Clashes Erupt in Islamabad
Defying roadblocks and tear gas, PTI supporters breached barricades and entered the high-security Red Zone, triggering intense clashes with security forces. Tear gas, gunfire, and mass arrests marked the confrontation, with authorities regaining control of the Red Zone after hours of unrest.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the area’s clearance, which includes key government buildings and embassies, now heavily guarded by the military. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, currently in Islamabad, remains under heightened security at D-Chowk.
Long March to Demand Khan’s Release
The protests began Sunday as PTI supporters marched from the northwest, led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, demanding Khan’s release. Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year, faces more than 150 criminal charges, which his party claims are politically motivated.
Bushra Bibi, Khan’s wife, led the protests briefly before retreating as security forces moved in. Protesters vowed to stay until Khan’s release, with some issuing warnings of retaliation. “If they fire bullets again, we will respond with bullets,” declared Shahzor Ali, a PTI supporter.
Deaths and Arrests in Protest Crackdown
Six people, including four security personnel, were killed when a vehicle plowed into protesters, while a police officer died in a separate incident. Authorities have arrested over 4,000 PTI supporters since Friday. Mobile and internet services, including access to platforms like WhatsApp and X (formerly Twitter), have been severely restricted across affected areas.
Economic and Political Fallout
The unrest has deepened Pakistan’s political and economic crises. The Pakistan Stock Exchange lost over $1.7 billion on November 26, reflecting growing investor concerns. “Rising political tensions are devastating for an already fragile economy,” said economist Mohammed Sohail of Topline Securities.
Government Accusations and PTI Defiance
Despite government warnings, protesters reached the Red Zone, waving PTI flags and chanting slogans. Information Minister Atta Tarar accused Bushra Bibi of inciting violence, claiming she sought bloodshed to pressure the government. He reiterated that Khan’s release could only be decided by the courts, not through protests.
A Nation on Edge
The divide between the Pakistani government and PTI supporters continues to widen, with authorities struggling to contain the violence while demonstrators remain resolute. The situation highlights the growing instability and the volatile mix of political and public discontent engulfing the nation.
