Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, the Emir of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), has announced a nationwide strike on April 26 in protest against the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza. The announcement was made during a massive rally in Islamabad, part of the Gaza Solidarity March, which saw thousands of people gathering in support of Palestine.
In his speech, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman criticized the silence of Muslim leaders, accusing them of failing to take action against the Israeli attacks on Gaza. He said, “Palestinian children are being slaughtered, but our rulers remain asleep. The Ummah is awake and we will not back down.”
The JI leader further demanded that Pakistan officially recognize Hamas as a legitimate Palestinian resistance force and allow them to open an office in Pakistan. Rehman emphasized that Hamas is not only a military force but also a democratically elected organization, urging the Pakistani government to support Palestine in its struggle.
He also warned that the ongoing genocide in Gaza, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction, is part of a larger plot by the United States and Israel. “The U.S. is backing the genocide in Gaza,” he said. “If Israel is to be stopped, pressure must be exerted on Washington.”
The strike on April 26, Rehman stated, will be a peaceful form of protest, involving boycotts of Israeli products and social media campaigns to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause. “We are calling on people from all walks of life to join this strike, from shopkeepers to professionals, and show our solidarity with the people of Gaza,” he said.
While criticizing both the government and opposition for not taking a strong stance, Rehman called for political unity on issues like Palestine and Kashmir, urging all parties to put aside their differences for the sake of justice. He declared that if the government failed to act, JI would escalate its efforts and intensify its campaign for Palestine.
Rehman also reiterated his condemnation of any attempts by Pakistan to forge ties with Israel, warning that such actions would be met with strong resistance. “Any attempt to befriend Israel from Pakistan will be resisted with full force,” he declared.
The rally, which began at Zero Point in Islamabad, was part of a series of demonstrations organized by JI to show solidarity with Palestine in the face of Israel’s military campaign. The protestors, including women and children, chanted slogans in support of Gaza and raised Palestinian flags.
The nationwide strike on April 26 is expected to bring attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and further mobilize public opinion against the Israeli occupation. Rehman emphasized that this is not just a political issue but a matter of faith and humanity, urging the people of Pakistan to continue their support for Palestine.
