Richard Grenell, a close ally of President-elect Donald Trump and his former intelligence chief, has called for the release of imprisoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
Release Imran Khan! https://t.co/y7puqQ9Los
— Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) November 26, 2024
“Release Imran Khan,” Grenell wrote on X while sharing a Bloomberg report on PTI’s protests. Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated in Adiala Jail since August last year, has previously accused the US of orchestrating his 2022 removal through a no-confidence vote, citing a purported cipher involving US diplomat Donald Lu. The former premier had maintained good relations with Trump during his presidency, including multiple meetings at the White House.
Read more: PTI Suspends Islamabad Sit-In Amid Clashes, Condemns Government Brutality
Thousands of PTI supporters marched on Islamabad this week, clashing with police and overcoming barriers in response to the imprisoned leader’s call for protests. The demonstrations targeted the “illegal” detention of party leaders and workers, alleged rigging in the February 8 general elections, and opposition to the 26th Constitutional Amendment.
Authorities imposed a security lockdown, barricading highways to block the demonstrators. However, law enforcement agencies eventually pushed the protesters back from Islamabad’s D-Chowk — the focal point of the party’s planned rally — after intense teargas shelling.
Read more: Four troops killed in Pakistan as protesters demand release of ex-PM Khan
PTI’s recent marches on the capital have frequently resulted in clashes between its supporters and law enforcement, escalating tensions in the political landscape. Geo News reported that protesters began retreating from the site following the crackdown by authorities.