Taliban voice concern on unrest in Pakistan, urge Islamabad to hold dialogue as PTI protests grow

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Taliban-led Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has voiced its 'concern' regarding the situation unfolding in Pakistan, adding that it is actively 'monitoring' developments in the country.

The spokesperson for the ministry said, "The tension between the government and supporters of political opposition in the neighboring country of Pakistan has reached a concerning level, and its continuation could have a negative impact on the entire region. The best way to address the legitimate demands of the people is through dialogue and understanding." 

"Recent events have proven that rejecting negotiations only complicates matters further. We are closely monitoring the situation in Pakistan and hope that the Pakistani government and influential institutions will respond to the growing dissatisfaction in a reasonable and realistic manner," the ministry added.

In Pakistan, over 30 individuals affiliated with Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, including lawyers, were arrested on Saturday (Oct 5) night after they gathered at the historic Minar-e-Pakistan site, demanding their leader's release, according to police reports on Sunday.

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The atmosphere in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi, which experienced violent clashes on Saturday, remains tense. However, there have been no reports of violence in these cities on Sunday, suggesting a gradual improvement in the situation.

According to Lahore police, more than 200 leaders and members of the PTI, including Khan himself, have been charged with terrorism following the violent confrontations between security forces and supporters, which resulted in one police officer's death and multiple injuries.

Khan had issued a directive dubbed "Do or Die," urging PTI supporters to protest in their respective cities. Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s party has reaffirmed its commitment to continue demonstrations against the government.

During an overnight meeting, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party resolved to persist with their protests until Khan, who has been incarcerated since August of last year, is released.

(With inputs from agencies)