A wave of intense violence has gripped Pakistan, fueled by protests organized by the hardline Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) against the Gaza Peace Plan. The party’s leader, Sadiq Rizvi, was reportedly shot three times during the confrontations, and his brother, Anas Rizvi, also sustained injuries. The protests, which initially aimed for a sit-in outside the US Embassy in Islamabad, led to a significant number of casualties. Official estimates suggest that around 250 TLP protesters lost their lives, while 48 police officers were also killed in the clashes. The demonstrations originated in Lahore, with protesters attempting to reach Islamabad. Their route was blocked by the government using containers, leading to a prolonged standoff. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration authorized the use of force, tasking the Rangers and Punjab police with clearing the highway. The situation rapidly deteriorated as law enforcement engaged with the demonstrators, resulting in open firing and a tragic escalation of violence. Streets reportedly witnessed significant bloodshed as authorities struggled to regain control. The protests highlight a growing opposition within Pakistan to international peace initiatives, even as a significant peace agreement is being implemented in Gaza, a situation that has garnered international attention.
