US embassy issues advisory to American citizens after TLP protests against Gaza killings

By Anjali Sharma

WASHINGTON – US Embassy in Islamabad and US Consulates in Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar on Friday have issued an advisory for American citizens after planned protest activity across Pakistan against Gaza killings by Israeli forces.

The advisory warned of possible traffic disruptions, road closures, and detours near demonstration sites and urged US citizens to avoid large gatherings and stay alert to their surroundings, as the duration of the protests remains uncertain.

Police reportedly tried to seal Tehreek-e-Labbaik’s HQs ahead of their planned march to the US Embassy after Friday prayers against the Gaza deal.

According to media reports during the night of Thursday and Friday, violent clashes erupted in Lahore between Tehreek-e-Labaik and Punjab Police.

The members of the far-right group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan attempted to march to the US Embassy in Islamabad in protest of the Gaza killings.

The march was stopped by police personnel in Lahore, triggered violent clashes with TLP men, left dozens injured and 2 protesters dead.

TLP was founded by Barelvi cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi in 2015, is a far-right political party.

The group, comprised of lakhs of members, has several times taken to the streets to protest against any changes to Pakistan’s anti-blasphemy laws.

It has also agitated against the US, Israel and western nations to protest against their stand on Palestine.