Police clash with Imran Khan supporters as protests escalate near Islamabad

Pakistani police used tear gas on Monday to disperse thousands of supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who were trying to enter Islamabad for a sit-in demanding his release. The protesters traveled from the northwest despite a lockdown and a ban on rallies. Clashes resulted in injuries to both police and demonstrators, with at least one police officer reported killed. The government is negotiating with Khan's party to prevent further violence, while authorities have arrested over 4,000 supporters since Friday. Khan, imprisoned for over a year, faces numerous criminal cases that his party claims are politically motivated. Protests have disrupted travel and daily life, with police blocking roads and suspending mobile services in affected areas.