“Shocking Unrest: Pakistan Church Attack Sparks Outrage and International Alarm”
Pakistan Church Attack: Over 100 Detained, US Calls for Probe into Religious Violence
Islamabad: Chaos and turmoil unfolded in Pakistan as multiple churches were vandalized and surrounding buildings attacked in the Jaranwala district of Faisalabad. More than 100 individuals have been apprehended in connection with the incident, according to reports from Geo News.
In response to these disturbing events, the Punjab provincial government has initiated a high-level inquiry to investigate the situation.
Interim Punjab Information Minister Amir Mir previously announced the detention of “dozens of people who disturbed peace” in the region. He described the violence in Jaranwala as a result of a well-orchestrated plot to disrupt tranquility.
The intention was to disturb the peace by inciting public emotions. After the desecration of the Holy Quran, angry protesters reacted vehemently,” stated Mir. He added that the situation in Faisalabad has been brought under control. US Expresses Concerns
Meanwhile, the United States has expressed deep concern over the incident and called on Pakistan to thoroughly investigate the attacks on churches and Christian residences following rumors of Quran desecration.
We hold deep concerns regarding the targeting of churches and homes in response to the reported desecration of the Quran in Pakistan. We stand for peaceful freedom of expression and the right to religious belief for all individuals. As we have reiterated before, we remain vigilant against instances of violence motivated by religion,” stated Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the US State Department, during a press briefing.
Patel emphasized that violence or the threat of violence should never be considered an acceptable form of expression. He urged Pakistani authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the allegations and called for calm among all parties involved.
Social media videos depicted an agitated mob scaling churches and defacing the holy cross, a sacred symbol for Christians.