The political and security leadership in Pakistan faced a difficult situation as supporters of jailed Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with security forces in the heart of capital Islamabad while foreign delegations were holding talks with officials. The protest, which resulted in six deaths, was held in the "Red Zone" where several high-profile institutions, including the parliament house and prime minister's residence, are located. The clashes coincided with the visit of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, who had several meetings scheduled during his stay. In an effort to control the situation, Islamabad was virtually sealed off with containers and barbed wires, causing chaos and disrupting the diplomatic visit.
Six people, including security personnel, have been killed and over 100 injured as protests turned violent in Islamabad. The government has deployed the army and ordered them to shoot on sight. The protests, demanding the release of ex-PM Imran Khan, come amidst political tension in the country. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also invoked the Constitution in a recent speech, suggesting that the issue may play a role in the 2024 elections.