Pakistan deploys security forces in Peshawar after emergency declared

Pakistan has deployed security forces and military vehicles in the city of Peshawar after a state of emergency was declared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in a move taken amid protests by supporters of Imran Khan and rising gun violence.

The Pakistani government declared a state of emergency in the province on Sunday. Thousands of supporters of former prime minister and jailed Pakistani leader Imran Khan have marched in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demanding his release and action to address the worsening economic situation.

The move effectively sidelines the provincial government led by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party from playing an active role in administration. Pakistani officials have cited the deteriorating security situation and the failure of talks with opposition groups as reasons for declaring the emergency.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders condemned the decision, saying the emergency declaration is undemocratic and violates the rights of the residents of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.