Pakistan on the brink: Army orders ‘shoot-at-sight’ amid explosive protests for Imran Khan

In a move highlighting Pakistan’s escalating political turmoil, the nation’s army has issued “shoot-at-sight” orders following violent protests demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The directive, authorized under Section 245 of the Constitution, empowers the military to counter internal security threats—originally intended to address external aggression or war. This unprecedented decision signals the government’s intent to quell unrest that has engulfed Islamabad and other major cities.

Protests erupted after Imran Khan’s arrest on charges ranging from corruption to incitement of violence, allegations his supporters and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party denounce as politically motivated. Demonstrators, including prominent PTI figures, gathered in Islamabad’s Red Zone, a high-security area housing key government buildings. Despite heightened security, clashes erupted when protesters breached barriers, resulting in violent confrontations with law enforcement.

A hardline response to rising violence

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the protests, describing them as a coordinated attempt to destabilize Pakistan’s government. He highlighted the deadly consequences of the unrest, which has left multiple security personnel dead and dozens injured. Sharif warned that law enforcement agencies, despite exercising restraint, faced an increasingly volatile situation that justified the deployment of the military.

The government also imposed a curfew in Islamabad, while the military fortified strategic locations to prevent further incursions. The “shoot-at-sight” directive grants the armed forces significant latitude to respond to perceived threats with lethal force. Critics argue this measure risks exacerbating violence rather than restoring order.

Human rights concerns and international scrutiny

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, which condemned the order as a violation of fundamental rights. Activists expressed concerns over the potential for abuse and the broader implications for democratic freedoms in Pakistan. Observers warned that such extreme measures could isolate the nation diplomatically and tarnish its international reputation.

From his prison cell, Imran Khan urged his supporters to remain peaceful, stating that the protests represented a broader struggle for Pakistan’s democracy and sovereignty. His call for nonviolence has done little to calm tensions, as demonstrations continue to spread across the country.

Economic and political repercussions

The crisis has compounded Pakistan’s already fragile economic situation. The Karachi Stock Exchange suffered significant losses, reflecting investor fears of prolonged instability. Meanwhile, diplomatic partners have voiced concerns over Pakistan’s ability to manage internal unrest while addressing critical economic and security challenges.

Political analysts suggest that dialogue between the government and opposition is the only viable path to resolving the impasse. Without meaningful engagement, the likelihood of further escalation remains high, with grave consequences for Pakistan’s governance and stability.

The road ahead

As Pakistan grapples with one of its most severe political crises in recent memory, the government’s reliance on military intervention underscores the depth of the challenge. Whether this approach will restore order or fuel further unrest remains uncertain. The coming days will be critical in shaping the nation’s trajectory, as both sides face mounting pressure to seek a resolution.