Pakistan’s capital Islamabad is under lockdown as tens of thousands of supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan march toward the city, demanding his release. The government has deployed heavy security, blocked roads, and suspended major highways connecting Islamabad. Mobile and internet services have been shut in key areas to disrupt communication among protesters, who heavily rely on platforms like WhatsApp and X for coordination.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi instructed law enforcement to arrest any protester attempting to enter the capital. Despite warnings, demonstrators remain resolute, with some stating they will “stay on the streets until the rights of the people are restored.” Khan, leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, has been imprisoned for over a year and faces more than 150 criminal charges, which his party alleges are politically motivated.

Khan’s support base is concentrated in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, from where the bulk of the protesters are mobilizing. Over 50,000 protesters are reported to be heading toward Islamabad, complicating the government’s efforts to contain the unrest.

Simultaneously, sectarian violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district has further destabilized the country. On November 21, a terrorist attack on a convoy of Shia travelers near Parachinar resulted in 82 deaths and 156 injuries. The victims, including women and children, were ambushed by gunmen. The area remains volatile, with displaced families surpassing 300 and gunfights continuing for three consecutive nights.

Nationwide protests have erupted in response to the attack, with demonstrations reported in Lahore, Karachi, and other cities. Shia communities demand stronger security measures to protect minorities in the region. Law Minister Aftab Alam Afridi has called for a ceasefire, stating that resolution of the underlying causes will follow.

The attack has been attributed to sectarian rivalries, although no group has claimed responsibility. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), with a history of targeting Shias, is a suspected perpetrator.

Pakistan now grapples with political unrest and sectarian violence, which threaten national stability. Both crises demand immediate attention to avoid further escalation.