By dubailife 
Pakistan’s Political Unrest Grabs Attention in Dubai Amid Rising Concerns Over Stability
Dubai is closely following the escalating political unrest in Pakistan as nearly 1,000 protesters were arrested during demonstrations in Islamabad, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The protests have sparked significant concern in Dubai’s Pakistani expatriate community and broader business circles, given the potential implications for regional stability and investor confidence.
The recent protests, led by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, mark the largest public demonstration since the February elections. Despite a government-imposed ban on public gatherings, over 10,000 protesters clashed with 20,000 security forces, attempting to reach key government sites, including Parliament and the Prime Minister’s residence.
In scenes reminiscent of civil unrest, protesters wielding sticks and slingshots faced off with security forces armed with tear gas and rubber bullets. Roadblocks and fires further intensified tensions, with AFP reporting that by early Wednesday, the city’s main routes were cleared, and security forces began withdrawing.
Dubai’s business and diplomatic sectors are particularly attuned to the impact of these developments, as ongoing instability could affect trade relations and investor confidence. Islamabad Police Inspector General Ali Nasir Rizvi confirmed that 954 protesters had been arrested from Sunday to Tuesday, with 610 arrests made on Tuesday alone. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised security forces for “bravely repulsing” the protesters, though criticism of the government’s heavy-handed tactics has been mounting.
Imran Khan, speaking from his detention, urged peaceful demonstrations and unity. However, current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif labeled the protests as “extremism” and vowed no leniency, with his government holding daily press briefings in Islamabad, warning marchers to stand down.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan called for immediate political dialogue between Khan’s PTI and Sharif’s administration to prevent further disruption. Political analysts, including Michael Kugelman of The Wilson Center, warn that Pakistan faces a deepening crisis with “no winners” in sight, as both public anger and political confrontations escalate.
Dubai-based observers are particularly concerned about the economic fallout, with mobile internet blackouts, school closures, and roadblocks disrupting everyday life in Pakistan’s capital. For Dubai, a key trading partner and home to a significant Pakistani diaspora, maintaining political stability in Pakistan is critical for bilateral economic relations and regional security.
As the situation unfolds, Dubai will likely continue to monitor developments, urging for peaceful dialogue and solutions that prevent further escalation and protect the region’s long-term stability.
Source : Khaleejtimes