Pakistan Army Ordered to ‘Shoot on Sight’ Amid Deadly Protests

Pakistan's military has been ordered to "shoot on sight" following violent clashes between protesters and security forces that resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and at least one demonstrator, according to reports. The unrest began when supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan entered the capital, Islamabad, late Monday, defying government efforts to suppress the protests.

Television reports indicated that four paratroopers had been "martyred" during the violence. Under Article 245, the army has been deployed with instructions to use lethal force if necessary. While the government has not commented on these reports, earlier statements attributed the unrest to Khan's supporters. Officials also confirmed the death of a police officer and injuries to more than 119 others, some of whom sustained gunshot wounds.

The largest convoy of protesters, originating from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, reportedly dismantled roadblocks on the highway to Islamabad despite attempts by authorities to disperse them using tear gas. According to government sources, hundreds of Khan’s followers have been arrested nationwide in connection with the demonstrations. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi described the injuries suffered by law enforcement personnel as severe, with two officers in critical condition.

The protests, which began Sunday, were sparked by Khan's calls for action despite his continued detention. The former cricket star and ousted premier has been jailed for over a year and faces more than 150 legal cases ranging from corruption to incitement of violence. Although courts have granted him bail or suspended sentences in several cases, he remains in custody.

In response to the escalating violence, authorities in Islamabad closed all educational institutions, banned gatherings of more than five people, and suspended mobile phone services in some areas. Naqvi vowed to hold Khan accountable for the chaos, stating, "Those who called for and supported these protests bear responsibility for the casualties among police officers." He also warned that demonstrators attempting to approach the capital's highly secured Red Zone—which houses government offices, Parliament, and the residences of top officials—would face immediate arrest.

The interior minister highlighted the toll on law enforcement, noting that dozens of police vehicles were set ablaze by protesters. He pledged strict action to prevent further unrest, emphasizing the government's commitment to restoring order in the capital.

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