On April 20, 2025, authorities in Islamabad closed all roads to the Red Zone in anticipation of a “Gaza Solidarity March” organised by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) to protest U.S. support for Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
The march, set to begin at 3:00 PM toward the U.S. Embassy, prompted a heavy police presence and roadblocks using containers, barbed wire, and concrete barriers.
جماعت اسلامی کے غزہ مارچ اور ریلی کے پیش نظر اسلام آباد کے ریڈ زون کو کنٹینرز لگا کر بند کر دیا گیا۔۔!! pic.twitter.com/cbiY6WgzVS
— Khurram Iqbal (@khurram143) April 19, 2025The Islamabad administration blocked three main entry points to the Red Zone, home to key government buildings and embassies, to manage the JI-led demonstration. JI General Secretary Amirul Azeem confirmed the peaceful protest and urged widespread participation in a video message cited by The Express Tribune. He referenced JI’s recent non-violent rallies in Karachi and Lahore, emphasising the march’s focus on condemning U.S. backing of Israel’s Gaza offensive.
JI leader Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also announced a nationwide shutdown strike for April 22 during a “Palestine March” in Karachi, reinforcing solidarity with Gaza, per ARY News. Pakistan has consistently denounced Israel’s actions, advocating for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and a Palestinian state, as noted in official statements.
The march reflects Pakistan’s strong stance against Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have drawn global condemnation. JI’s protests, part of a series including a 60-day campaign ending with sit-ins, aim to pressure international actors, particularly the U.S., to support Israel.
