Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has announced a countrywide wheel-jam strike on April 22 to express solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine as tensions and violence continue in Gaza.

Addressing a massive rally in Karachi, JI Ameer Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman urged Muslim leaders across the globe to take decisive action and stand with Palestinians in the face of Israeli aggression.

Thousands, including women and children, gathered on Shahrah-e-Faisal for the “Million March” organized by Jamaat-e-Islami to pay tribute to the martyrs of Gaza and protest against ongoing Israeli atrocities.

Speaking at the event, Hafiz Naeem said, “The UN Charter has been thrown into the river. Terrorists rule the world, and Zionist forces will not spare Muslim rulers either. The time has come for the 56 Muslim countries to unite and fulfill their responsibility.”

Jamaat-e-Islami announces Palestine marches in major cities

He called on Pakistan’s Prime Minister and Army Chief to play a leading role in advocating for Palestine, while urging all political parties in the country to stop aligning with Israeli interests and instead condemn Israeli aggression and support the Palestinian cause.

“The spirit of jihad cannot be suppressed by hollow slogans,” he said, further recommending that all Muslim countries convene a military summit to discuss collective defense strategies.

Hafiz Naeem directly addressed political parties including PML-N, PPP, and PTI, questioning their silence on Gaza. “Raise your voice for the people of Gaza. Condemn Israel. Why don’t you speak up for the oppressed? History will not forgive you.”

He also called on the public and politicians alike to clarify their stance on the boycott of Israeli products. “By buying their goods, we are only strengthening them,” he said. “Why does the idea of jihad disturb you? You cannot crush the spirit of resistance with lies.”

Nationwide protests erupt in Pakistan in solidarity with Palestinians

Lamenting the lack of genuine leadership, he said, “This government does not represent us. We must change the system. Even the children of Karachi should march for Gaza. Students from every university must take to the streets.”

Hafiz Naeem concluded by emphasizing the need for unified, bold actions against oppression and urged people to stand on the right side of history.

Alternative routes advised to avoid congestion

Karachi traffic police issued a detailed traffic diversion plan ahead of Jamaat-e-Islami’s Gaza Million March scheduled for Sunday at 4pm on Shahrah-e-Faisal.

JI leader Munem Zafar Khan appealed to the public to participate in large numbers to show support for the people of Gaza.

To manage traffic flow and avoid inconvenience, citizens were urged to use alternative routes as the main artery was expected to be heavily congested. The traffic police had recommended the following diversions:

• From Avari/Saddar to Airport: Take the FTC to Korangi Road route, or use Sindhi Muslim to Allah Wali Signal and proceed via University Road.

• From Airport to Saddar: Use Drigh Road to Rashid Minhas Road for a smoother commute.

• From Karsaz: Commuters should use the Baloch Colony Bridge and connect to the Expressway.

Authorities requested the public’s cooperation and patience during the rally. The Karachi Traffic Police deployed personnel across key junctions to facilitate movement and ensure safety.