Escalating protests in Iran and reports of a sweeping crackdown have put global focus on the risks of political unrest in the region. As Pakistan approaches February 8, similar questions are being asked as PTI’s planned protests and shutdown calls are raising fears of street disorder and escalation.
Situation in Iran
In Iran, demonstrations erupted following severe economic shocks and confusion. These soon escalated into the country’s largest unrest in years.
Observers say that what is unfolding in the neighbouring country of Iran right now is a warning sign.
Reports indicate mass killings, arrests, and a sweeping crackdown.
International bodies, including the UN Human Rights Council, have responded. They are holding emergency sessions due to claims of extreme force being used against the demonstrators.
At the same time, Iran has implemented major internet shutdowns. This has deepened the political unrest and economic paralysis in the country.
February 8 PTI protest
In Pakistan, many suggest that this fear is raising its head again, as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its allied opposition movement are preparing for the February 8 protest.
PTI Chairman, Barrister Gohar, previously announced that on February 8, 2026, a countrywide shutter-down and wheel-jam strike will take place.
The party aims to protest the February 24, 2024, general elections, which they claim were “rigged.” PTI has termed this protest a “Black Day.”
Authorities are preparing for possible unrest, sources say. Punjab is reportedly arranging new riot control measures.
Riot Management Unit
The Punjab government has established a Riot Management Unit ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) nationwide strike.
A new unit has been formed under Article 31A of the Police Order, 2002, to manage riots and unlawful gatherings across the province.
The unit will operate under the provincial police officer and will use modern crowd-control equipment.
These include water cannons, rubber bullets, tear gas, special vehicles, and armoured personnel carriers.
At the same time, special session courts will handle protest-related cases through summary trials, with verdicts expected within 30 days.
Under the new rules, protesters, organisers, and facilitators can all be held responsible for unrest, and strict penalties will apply to those found guilty.
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