US urges restraint as PTI protests escalate in Pakistan

The U.S. has called for restraint amid violent clashes between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters and law enforcement in Islamabad. The State Department urged both sides to respect human rights and maintain order. The protests escalated as PTI workers advanced towards the capital, demanding the release of their leader, Imran Khan. Clashes resulted in the deaths of two police officers and injuries to several others. In response to the unrest, the Pakistani government has deployed army troops in Islamabad. This situation follows previous U.S. calls for Khan's release, reflecting ongoing international concern over the political climate in Pakistan.