Pakistan Roundup: Violent protests, opposition lawmakers detained, US sanctions

Violent protests over blasphemy suspect

Violent protests erupted in Quetta, Pakistan, as demonstrators attacked the Kharotabad police station with a grenade, demanding the release of a blasphemy suspect. The unrest, involving supporters of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), resulted in clashes with police and traffic disruptions. The grenade exploded outside the station without causing injuries. According to ANI, blasphemy laws in Pakistan, which criminalise acts deemed insulting to Islam, have historically incited violent protests, as seen in high-profile cases like the acquittal of Asia Bibi and the assassination of Punjab Governor Salman Taseer. Critics argue these laws disproportionately target religious minorities and perpetuate a climate of fear and intolerance.

Opposition lawmakers detained

Multiple opposition lawmakers in Pakistan, primarily from Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have been detained and charged with terrorism offences following a large rally demanding Khan's release. The rally, held on the outskirts of Islamabad, attracted thousands and led to clashes with police. The PTI plans to stage a major protest against what they describe as an unjust military-backed crackdown, reports NHK World.

Probe into political arrests

Senator Irfan Siddiqui criticised recent arrests of parliament members, calling for an investigation during a Senate session. He condemned the incidents, stating they tarnished parliament's reputation, and questioned why his own 2019 arrest went unchallenged. He denounced the previous PTI government for targeting opposition leaders and dismissed violent protest methods, asserting that meaningful change cannot come from destruction. Siddiqui urged accountability for the current unrest and emphasised parliament's resilience in overcoming challenges, Dunya reported.

Instability

Former US diplomat Zalmay Khalilzad has raised alarms about increasing instability in Pakistan, pointing to a rise in terrorism, military interference in politics, and widespread public protests. He criticized the army chief, General Asim Munir, for his role in escalating internal violence and noted that ISIS is reportedly establishing bases in Balochistan. Khalilzad also highlighted Pakistan's worsening economic situation, heavily reliant on International Monetary Fund (IMF) rescue packages. As reported by ANI, amidst these issues, residents of Karachi are facing severe shortages of water and electricity, leading to protests over high bills and power outages. Overall, the situation in Pakistan appears increasingly precarious, with significant implications for both security and economic stability.

US sanctions

The US State Department has imposed sanctions on a Chinese research institute and several companies for their involvement in supplying Pakistan's ballistic missile program. This includes the Beijing Research Institute of Automation for Machine Building Industry, which reportedly procured equipment for testing rocket motors for the Shaheen-3 and Ababeel systems. Additional targets are three China-based firms and a Pakistan-based company for violating missile technology restrictions, reports India TV News. The US emphasized its commitment to combat proliferation activities. Responses from China and Pakistan’s embassies were not immediately available.