US calls for restraint as PTI protest turns violent
1. "We call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms," says Miller
As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers engage in clashes with law enforcement while marching towards Islamabad, the United States has called for both sides to exercise restraint.
"We urge Pakistani authorities to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms while respecting Pakistan's laws and constitution as they work to maintain order," said US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Washington also urged protesters to "demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence."
The US remarks follow the tragic deaths of two police officers, including Constable Muhammad Mubashir Bilal, who were reportedly attacked by protesters.
The situation in the capital has been tense as PTI workers, demanding the release of their leader Imran Khan, managed to enter Islamabad in multiple convoys, defying roadblocks and preventive measures imposed by the government.
The PTI's march towards Islamabad was marked by sporadic clashes with police, who used tear gas to prevent the protesters' advance.
In addition to the fallen police officers, four Rangers personnel were also martyred after being run over by a vehicle on Srinagar Highway, according to security sources.
Despite warnings from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi against crossing the "red line" and reaching Sangjani, Bushra Bibi, the wife of PTI leader Imran Khan, who is leading one of the convoys, has insisted on advancing to D-Chowk.
In response to the escalating violence, the federal government has deployed Pakistan Army troops in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution.
This is not the first time the US has weighed in on Pakistani politics. In October, over 60 members of the US House of Representatives sent a letter to President Joe Biden urging the release of Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year. Another letter followed earlier this month, signed by 46 members of Congress, calling on President Biden to "advocate for the immediate release" of the PTI leader.
