GILGIT — The government of Gilgit-Baltistan has curfew imposed across Gilgit and Skardu districts following deadly protests in the region. Pakistan Army troops have been called in under Article 245 of the Constitution to restore law and order.
The unrest began after the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in an airstrike reportedly carried out by the US and Israel on February 28. Authorities cited a “precarious law-and-order situation” and warned that tensions could escalate further.
The curfew imposed will remain in effect on March 2, 3, and 4. Under Article 245, army troops are assisting civil authorities for an initial 14-day period to prevent further clashes and violence. Officials said the deployment aims to restore stability after days of arson and targeted attacks on public and international institutions.
In Gilgit city, protesters burned offices of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan, as well as the United Nations Development Programme. Local officials described the attacks as some of the most severe unrest in recent years.
To ensure the availability of food and medical supplies, authorities allowed limited relaxation periods. Curfew will run from midnight to noon, with relaxation from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Curfew resumes until midnight, and a similar schedule continues overnight. Security officials warned that any violations of the curfew imposed would face strict legal action.
All schools and universities in Gilgit-Baltistan have been closed indefinitely. Foreign tourists have been relocated to secure accommodations under police supervision. Authorities have also sealed off “Red Zones,” and clashes were reported near U.S. diplomatic facilities.
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Officials emphasized that the measures are temporary and necessary to protect lives and property. The situation remains tense, and residents have been urged to cooperate with authorities while the curfew and security operations continue.
