Afghanistan Embassy closes amid violent protests in Islamabad

The Afghanistan Embassy in Islamabad has suspended all operations, citing the growing unrest as supporters of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan escalate their protests in the capital.

In a statement posted on its official X account, the embassy announced, “No services would be provided by the embassy, due to the rising tensions.”

The protests, led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters, have turned violent, with demonstrators demanding the release of the jailed ex-premier. Although they retreated from D-Chowk, the group issued a stark warning: “We are ready for negotiations, but if our demands are not accepted, we will reoccupy Islamabad’s key areas,” one protestor declared.

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Negotiations between the government and PTI representatives have reportedly begun, with Gawhar Ali Khan visiting Imran Khan in prison to discuss the situation. A PTI spokesperson commented, “Our movement is peaceful, but the government’s aggression will be met with resistance.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Interior Ministry has reinforced Islamabad’s Red Zone, deploying the military to protect critical government buildings and foreign missions. Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti stated, “We will not allow the Red Zone to fall into chaos. Diplomatic missions and national institutions are secure under the army’s watch.”

The unrest has already claimed the lives of four security personnel. A senior police officer described the clashes, saying, “Protestors broke through blockades and attacked security forces, leaving us no choice but to respond.”

Amid the turmoil, the Afghan Embassy’s decision to close underscores the broader regional implications of the crisis. An embassy official remarked, “The safety of our staff and services is paramount. We hope the situation stabilizes soon.”