Karachi unites in solidarity with Palestinians

Political, religious, and civil society leaders join protest outside KPC to condemn Israeli brutalities

KARACHI:

A huge demonstration was staged in the metropolis on Sunday, bringing together political, religious, and civil society leaders along with a big turnout of citizens to mark the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

Participants chanted slogans in support of right to self-determination of Palestinian people and condemned Israeli aggression, expressing frustration over the international community's silence in the face of ongoing Israeli atrocities.

Those who addressed protesters outside the Karachi Press Club (KPC) included Human Rights Council representative Jamshed Hussain, Sikh community leader Mugan Singh, Christian community leader Pastor Emmanuel, and Secretary General of Palestine Foundation Pakistan Dr Saber Abu Maryam.

Speakers reiterated that Palestine belongs to the Palestinians, terming Israel an "illegitimate entity" and saying that armed resistance is a legitimate right under international law. They added that lasting peace can only be achieved when Palestinians are granted their fundamental rights and Zionist settlers are returned to their countries of origin.

Participants strongly criticised the United States and other global powers for what their "criminal silence" despite ongoing genocide, ceasefire violations, and widespread human rights abuses in Gaza. They warned that Israeli aggression threatens not only Palestine but also regional states, including Syria, Lebanon, Iran, Qatar, and Yemen, urging Muslim nations to adopt a unified strategy.

The speakers reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, stressing that the nation would defend both its ideological boundaries and its long-standing stance of refusing to recognise Israel in line with Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's vision. The crowd vowed to continue its campaign until Palestinians receive justice and freedom.

Separately, PML-F Sindh Secretary General Sardar Abdul Rahim criticised the international community for failing to protect Palestinians despite repeated assurances. He said Palestinians are enduring one of the darkest chapters in human history.