Violent confrontations broke out in Lahore, Pakistan, on Friday between law enforcement and members of the Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), as authorities moved to block thousands of protesters from marching toward Islamabad for a pro-Palestinian rally near the US Embassy.
Police used batons and tear gas to disperse demonstrators, who retaliated with stones, leading to chaos across the city.
Casualties and escalation
The violence, which began Thursday, has left at least two people dead and 50 injured, according to TLP.
Witnesses reported intense clashes near the group’s headquarters, with tear gas causing distress among residents.
Background of the unrest
The unrest followed TLP leader Saad Rizvi’s call for a “long march” to Islamabad after a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel brokered by former US President Donald Trump.
Government response
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration suspended mobile internet services and blocked major highways to prevent the rally.
Schools in Lahore were shut as authorities deployed heavy security to contain the escalating tensions.
