ISLAMABAD: A widespread strike brought business activity to a halt across Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Saturday, as traders and civil society members expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and protested the ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza.
The strike was organized in response to a nationwide call by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and various traders’ associations. Almost all major markets and commercial centers in both cities remained closed, significantly impacting business operations.
In Rawalpindi, prominent commercial areas like Raja Bazaar, Murree Road, and Saddar saw little to no activity, reflecting strong participation in the protest. Similarly, in Islamabad, key markets such as Aabpara, Melody, Karachi Company, Super Market, Jinnah Super, and Blue Area remained shut.
The medical community also showed support, with the Druggists and Chemists Association participating in the strike, leading to the closure of numerous pharmacies across the twin cities.
Ajmal Baloch, President of the All Pakistan Traders Association, led a protest demonstration at Aabpara Chowk in Islamabad, where he strongly criticized the international community’s silence over the ongoing crisis. Baloch called for the resignation of the United Nations Secretary-General, citing the lack of effective action in response to Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Addressing the gathering, Chaudhry, a prominent leader, emphasized that the entire Muslim Ummah stands with the Palestinian people, drawing on historical statements by Pakistan’s founders to highlight Pakistan’s unwavering stance on the issue. He also sharply criticized US policies in the Middle East, warning that continued support for Israeli actions could lead to America’s downfall, similar to the Soviet Union’s experience in Afghanistan.
The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) issued a statement underscoring that standing with Palestine is not only a moral duty but also a humanitarian obligation. The RCCI reaffirmed the strong solidarity of Pakistan’s business community with the Palestinian cause, reflecting a united stance on the issue.
