Pakistan witnessed widespread protests across the country as hundreds of citizens expressed solidarity with the people of Gaza, condemning Israel’s siege and bombings on the Gaza Strip. The protests demanded an immediate end to the oppression faced by the Palestinian population. The Israeli military’s intense offensive in response to a surprise attack by the Hamas group has placed Gaza, home to 2.3 million people, under siege, resulting in significant casualties.
Protesters in various parts of Pakistan, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, rallied after Friday prayers. Demonstrators waved Palestinian flags, carried posters with slogans like ‘From land to the sea, Palestine will be free,’ and burned Israeli flags. The protests aimed to raise awareness and condemn the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza.
Key Points:
-
Lahore: Jamaat e Islami Pakistan organized a massive rally at Mall Road, where participants, including women and children, carried a giant Palestinian flag. JI Emir Sirajul Haq criticized the US and European countries for supporting Israel and called for Muslim countries to unite in support of the Palestinian cause.
-
Karachi: Various protests were held in Karachi, with Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) and Jamat-e-Islami (JI) supporters expressing solidarity with Palestinians. The protests demanded an immediate end to the atrocities in Gaza.
-
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Protest rallies were conducted in Malakand and Hazara divisions against Israeli actions. Demonstrators blocked the Karakoram Highway in Kohistan, urging the United Nations to intervene and stop the genocide of Palestinians.
-
Quetta: JUI-F organized a rally condemning Israel’s oppression of Palestinians. PML-N, PTI, and other local parties also staged protests outside the Quetta Press Club.
-
Islamabad: The Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen held a rally in the capital, emphasizing ‘No compromise on Gaza’ and ‘Stop genocide of Palestinians.’ PTI supporters also protested, claiming arrests by the police.
The protests reflect a growing international outcry against Israel’s military actions in Gaza, prompting demonstrations in several countries. The situation has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with the UN urging Israel to reconsider orders for Gaza City residents to relocate, warning of devastating consequences.
