Pakistan: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party to hold rally in Tarnol, Islamabad, from 18:00 July 6

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party plans to stage a rally along National Highway 5 (N-5) in Islamabad's Tarnol area from 18:00 July 6. The purpose of the action is to demand the release of detained PTI leader Imran Khan. A few thousand demonstrators are likely to gather from late morning. Although leaders have appealed for a peaceful gathering, attendees may engage in clashes and roadblocks. Organizers have also vowed to hold the event regardless of police approval, heightening the risk of altercations.

Protester and/or police movement will likely disrupt train services at the Tarnol Railway Station and along the N-5 route connecting Islamabad and Peshawar. Authorities will almost certainly boost security across Islamabad and deploy police to the rally site. Tight security is probable at government buildings, diplomatic enclaves, and popular alternative protest sites, including major intersections such as D-chowk, public squares like the Parade Ground, monuments, and parks such as the Fatima Jinnah/F-9 Park. Local officials have previously issued Section 144 orders in the lead-up to large rallies; the rules prohibit unauthorized public gatherings of more than four people and the carriage of arms in public, among others.

Other enhanced security measures, such as limiting entry to sensitive areas like Islamabad's Red Zone, are probable. Authorities will likely impose roadblocks and vehicle checks to prevent unauthorized gatherings. Any significant violence that materializes may prompt closures of local schools and businesses, temporary curbs on public movement, and/or telecommunication services like mobile internet. Officials may also conduct preventive and/or mass arrests and use force to disperse unruly crowds.