JI Declares Nationwide Strike Against Israel's Gaza Onslaught — April 26

Pakistan Reacts: JI Declares Countrywide Shutdown on April 26 Over Israeli War Crimes in Gaza

In a powerful response to the continued Israeli genocide in Gaza, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman stunned the nation by announcing a massive nationwide strike on April 26, demanding Pakistan stand up against war crimes and fully support Palestine.

The announcement came during an emotionally charged ‘Palestine Solidarity March’ held in Islamabad on April 20. Thousands gathered waving Palestinian flags, chanting against the Israeli occupation and urging an end to what many call the largest humanitarian crisis of the 21st century.

🚨 Death Toll Rises in Gaza

Since Israel launched its retaliatory campaign following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, over 51,000 Palestinians — including thousands of children — have been killed. Entire neighborhoods, hospitals, and schools in Gaza lie in ruins.

Satellite images confirm that over 70% of Gaza’s residential infrastructure has been destroyed. Thousands remain missing under debris, with international aid blocked repeatedly.

JI’s Explosive Demands

Hafiz Naeemur Rehman delivered a fierce speech, outlining a three-fold resistance strategy:

1. Nationwide Strike on April 26

2. Complete Boycott of Israeli-Linked Products

3. Social Media Warfare to Expose Zionist Brutality

He didn’t stop there — Rehman openly called for official recognition of Hamas by Pakistan and demanded the establishment of a Hamas political office in Islamabad.

“Hamas is a democratically elected movement. They are a legitimate resistance force under the UN Charter. We must support them,” — Rehman stated.

 Strong Words for the US & Pakistani Politicians

Rehman accused both the Pakistani government and opposition of cowardice and submission to US pressure, saying:

“They do not condemn Israel or America because they are slaves to them. We are the servants of the Prophet (PBUH), not Washington!”

He urged Muslims to reject American imperialism and stand firmly for Palestine.

Gaza Genocide vs. Hamas Ethics?

He drew a sharp contrast between Hamas’s humane treatment of Israeli captives and Israel’s brutal abuse of Palestinian prisoners:

“Israel imprisons children for 20 years. That’s their democracy! Hamas is following Islam and showing real humanity.”

Capital Lockdown & Red Zone Standoff

Initially, the JI aimed to march on the US Embassy in Islamabad’s Red Zone, but after intense negotiations, the venue shifted to Islamabad Expressway near Zero Point to avoid security conflict.

Heavy police deployment, roadblocks, and shipping containers transformed the capital into a fortress. The Islamabad police issued multiple traffic advisories as a “foreign dignitary” — later confirmed as UAE’s Deputy PM Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan — was scheduled to arrive the same evening.

Nationwide Momentum Builds

Rehman’s call to boycott Israeli-supporting brands is gaining traction, especially among youth and social media activists. The April 26 shutdown could paralyze commerce from Karachi to Chitral.

Public Opinion: Unity or Division?

While many hail the strike as a moral duty, others fear it might disrupt daily life without tangible results. However, the symbolism of collective resistance seems to resonate deeply across Pakistani society.

❓ Top 10 Google FAQs Answered

1. What is the reason behind the April 26 strike in Pakistan?

Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has called for the strike to protest Israel’s genocide in Gaza and to support Palestine.

2. Who announced the nationwide strike in Pakistan?

JI Central Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman announced it during the Palestine Solidarity March.

3. Is Hamas recognized by Pakistan?

Currently, no. However, JI has demanded official recognition and a Hamas office in Islamabad.

4. What is the death toll in Gaza as of April 2025?

Over 51,000 Palestinians have died, with thousands more injured and missing.

5. What products should be boycotted in Pakistan due to links with Israel?

Brands with financial ties to Israeli companies or military should be boycotted. (A detailed list is circulating on social media.)

6. Will schools and businesses close on April 26 in Pakistan?

JI has urged complete shutdown, but official closures will vary by region and sector.

7. What is the role of Hafiz Naeemur Rehman in the protest?

He is leading the national resistance effort and spearheading pro-Palestine activism.

8. Are other political parties supporting the strike?

As of now, most major parties have not officially joined the strike.

9. What’s the international response to the Gaza crisis?

Global reactions are mixed. While many nations have condemned Israel’s actions, strong US and EU backing for Israel continues.

10. Where did the Palestine Solidarity March take place?

In Islamabad, mainly along the Expressway and near Zero Point, due to Red Zone restrictions.