Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Anti-France Rally in Pakistan Turns Violent

Ayaz Gul

   ISLAMABAD - Police in Pakistanon Fridaytear-gassed and dispersed angry
   protesters who tried to march toward the French Embassy in Islamabad to
   demonstrate against the republishing of cartoons in France depicting
   the Prophet Muhammad.
   Anger has grown across Muslim nations against French President Emmanuel
   Macron who has pledged to defend the freedom of expression andsaid
   France "will not renounce the caricatures," whichMuslims deem
   blasphemous.
   Witnesses said that about3,000 people, mostly activists of Islamic
   parties, emerged from mosques in the Pakistani capital
   followingFriday'smass prayers and gathered on the main road leading to
   the diplomatic enclave, which houses foreign embassies.'¯
   The crowd demanded Pakistan expel the French ambassador, sever ties
   with France and called for the boycott of French products. The rally
   turned violent and broke through security blockades, prompting riot
   police to launch tear gas shells and rubber bullets.'¯
   Protesters retaliated by hurling stones at police vehicles and
   vandalizinga police post. Pakistani officials and rally participants
   didnotreport any casualties.
   "We demand the French embassy must immediately be shut down and the
   government must recall Pakistani ambassador from Paris," said Zaheer
   Ahmed, a rally participant and the leader of a local traders'
   association.'¯
   "Islamic countries must sever economic ties with France until their
   president apologies to Muslims for hurting their sentiments," said
   Safiullah Khattak, a religious party activist.

.