Islamabad enforces security lockdown ahead of protests for Imran Khan's release

Islamabad is under a security lockdown as protests are planned by supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Highways leading to the city are blocked, and police and paramilitary forces are deployed in riot gear. Mobile phone services have been suspended. Protesters, led by Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), aim to gather near the parliament to demand Khan's release and the resignation of the current government. Khan has been in jail since August 2023, facing multiple charges, which he denies. Previous protests have turned violent, raising concerns about stability. The government has banned gatherings and restricted messaging services ahead of the planned demonstrations.