A Pakistani Anti-Terrorism Court has sentenced seven journalists and commentators to life imprisonment in absentia for alleged "digital terrorism" and waging war against the state. The verdict, linked to events following the May 9, 2023 arrest of Imran Khan, categorizes online political commentary as an act of terror. Sources suggest this move aims to criminalize dissent and control diaspora voices influencing international opinion against the military establishment, with the court perceived as influenced by military leadership.