Washington, November 26, 2024 – As clashes between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers and law enforcement agencies escalate near Islamabad, the United States has urged both sides to exercise restraint. Addressing the situation, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of upholding human rights and maintaining constitutional order.
“We call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, and to ensure adherence to Pakistan’s laws and constitution as they work to maintain law and order,” Miller stated during a press briefing on Tuesday. He also appealed to protesters to “demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence.”
The call for restraint follows the martyrdom of two police personnel, including Constable Muhammad Mubashir Bilal, allegedly attacked during the protests.
The situation in Islamabad remains tense as PTI workers, demanding the release of their founder, Imran Khan, entered the federal capital in convoys after overcoming government-imposed roadblocks and other preventive measures.
Washington’s remarks underscore international concern over the unrest, with an emphasis on the need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.