The United States has called for calm and respect for fundamental freedoms as political unrest grows in Pakistan.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the need for peaceful demonstrations and human rights protection. “We support freedom of expression worldwide, including in Pakistan,” Miller said. “We urge protesters to remain peaceful and avoid violence.”
The US also urged the Pakistani government to uphold human rights during the unrest. “We expect the government to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms,” Miller added, stressing the need to maintain law and order within the framework of Pakistani law.
The US remarks came after tensions escalated on Sunday. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters clashed with security forces at Chungi No 26 in Islamabad, injuring a Rangers officer.
Violence has surged in multiple regions, with reports of attacks on law enforcement by miscreants disguised as protesters. Police Constable Mubashir, 46, died from a head injury after being assaulted at Hakla Interchange. He was under medical care when he passed away.
Over 100 police officers have been injured in various violent incidents.
In Attock, violence intensified when three police officers were critically injured in a shooting near Katti Pahari. Constable Wajid from Faisalabad suffered a neck wound and remains in critical condition. Constable Samiullah from Sargodha was shot in the leg, and another officer, also named Samiullah, was injured by stone-pelting in Attock. He is receiving treatment in Hasanabdal.
All three officers were on special duty in the area when the attacks occurred.
