Pakistan army issues shoot-at-sight orders during Imran Khan protests

In Pakistan, violent protests erupted in the capital as supporters of Imran Khan demonstrated for his release. In response to the escalating situation, the government called for military intervention, leading to the army's decision to issue shoot-at-sight orders under Section 245. This legal clause is intended for the armed forces to defend the nation against external threats but has been controversially applied to internal unrest. The situation has resulted in a tense standoff, with protesters defying security measures and facing armed forces directly. The protests have not only targeted government buildings but have also become increasingly hostile towards journalists, with reports of media crews being attacked by PTI supporters. Multiple media organizations have faced aggression from demonstrators, prompting journalists to seek refuge from the violence. As the protests raged on, PTI leadership condemned the attacks on media teams, labeling them “deplorable” and calling for peaceful demonstrations. Amid the turmoil, the PTI reported that one of its members, Abdul Qadir Khan, was killed during clashes with security forces in Islamabad. This incident sparked outrage among party supporters and intensified calls from PTI for the release of their leader, Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned. The continued unrest highlights the deep political divides in Pakistan, where the military and government are grappling with significant public dissent. As the military takes a more direct role in enforcing order, the implications for civil liberties and freedom of the press remain a critical concern. The situation in Pakistan is at a boiling point, with a potential escalation of violence as the military confronts protesters and instability continues to rise.