All routes leading to the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway have been sealed as part of heightened security measures ahead of a rally organized by a religious political party.

The unrest began late last night in Punjab after police conducted a raid on the party’s headquarters to arrest its leader.

The operation sparked violent clashes between security personnel and party supporters, who reportedly attacked police with stones and iron rods. At least three policemen were injured in the confrontation.

In response, law enforcement used tear gas to disperse the crowd, turning the area into a conflict zone.

The party had earlier announced plans to hold a large-scale protest outside the US Embassy in Islamabad on Friday to demonstrate against Israel.