Pakistan: 11 killed in clashes between police, TLP protesters
What's the story
Violent clashes erupted in Lahore on Saturday between the police and the hardline Islamist group Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The unrest started when authorities attempted to stop TLP protesters from marching toward Islamabad for a pro-Palestinian rally. The protests began on Thursday over Israel's actions in Gaza and intensified with what TLP called the "Gaza March."
Protest escalation
TLP accuses police of firing 'indiscriminately'
The TLP, led by chief Saad Rizvi, accused the Punjab police of firing "indiscriminately," killing 11 of its members and injuring over 50. However, these figures have not been independently verified by the police. The protests saw thousands marching from Multan Road in Lahore toward Islamabad, chanting religious slogans and carrying sticks and rods.
Protest suppression
Police use tear gas, erect barricades to control protesters
According to Dawn, the police used tear gas and erected barricades at several intersections, including Yateem Khana Chowk, Chauburji, Azadi Chowk, and Shahdara, to control the protesters. Despite these efforts, protesters breached many barriers and continued their march. Videos shared online showed them occupying parts of the Orange Line Metro track and throwing stones at police officers.
Protest leader's speech
Clashes coincide with Israel-Hamas peace deal
In a viral video, a TLP leader said, "11 TLP people have been killed since the morning. Continuous shelling and firing is happening." Clashes were particularly intense near Lahore's Azadi Chowk, where several police vehicles were torched. The unrest coincides with Israel and Hamas agreeing to a Gaza peace deal mediated by US President Donald Trump.
Government response
TLP misusing Gaza issue for political gain: Pakistan minister
Pakistan's Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, slammed TLP for "misusing" the Gaza issue for "political gain." He warned that violence or blackmail by any group wouldn't be tolerated. An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has remanded 110 TLP activists in police custody on charges of attacking officers and damaging public property.