Tens of thousands of people gathered in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi on Sunday to show solidarity with Palestinians and condemn Israeli bombardment in Gaza. The rallies, organized by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) with the support of various political parties and trade associations, featured participants from diverse backgrounds, including women, children, and religious minorities.
Wearing arm and headbands with slogans like “Labbaik ya Gaza” (Gaza, we are here) and “Labbaik ya Aqsa” (Aqsa, we are here), protesters marched along Shahrah-e-Faisal in Karachi. Over 100,000 people were estimated to have joined the demonstration, chanting “down with Israel” in unison. JI chief Sirajul Haq expressed concerns over the rising number of casualties in Gaza and accused Israel of deliberately targeting civilians, emphasizing the significance of Palestine in their faith.
In Rawalpindi, participants in Liaquat Bagh vehemently condemned Israeli aggression against innocent Palestinians. JI Punjab Amir Dr Tariq Saleem commended Hamas’ “surprise attack” on Israel and warned the United States against taking sides in the conflict.
Amid these rallies, Israel continued preparations for a ground offensive in Gaza, responding to Hamas’ surprise attack. Israel’s warning for Gazans in the northern territory to flee ahead of a ground incursion into Gaza City raised concerns.
In Lahore, the Muslim Youth League organized a Labbaik Ya Aqsa rally, drawing thousands from various walks of life. Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar, President Markzi Muslim League Lahore, urged Muslim rulers to take practical actions for the freedom of Palestine. He criticized Pakistani youth for recognizing Israel as a state.
The Tehreek Jawanan Pakistan (TJP) held a ‘Martyrs of Palestine and Pakistan Rally’ in Karachi, expressing solidarity with Palestinians. TJP Chairman Abdullah Gul condemned Israel’s violation of human rights in Palestine and expressed support for the Palestinian cause.
Former Prime Minister and PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif called for an immediate cessation of Israeli airstrikes, condemning the tragic martyrdom of over 2,000 Palestinians, including children. He urged the international community and the UN Security Council to protect Palestinians’ rights and end the ongoing bloodshed.
PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasized the international community’s role in halting the massacre of Palestinians, condemning the violation of international law and war crimes committed by Israel. Attacks on hospitals, humanitarian caravans, and civilian populations were strongly criticized.