A countrywide shutdown strike, called by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) to show solidarity with Palestinians, has led to the closure of major commercial centers across various cities in Pakistan.
In Lahore, prominent markets including Badami Bagh’s auto parts market, car dealerships, Urdu Bazaar, Mall Road, Anarkali, Shah Alam Market, Brandreth Road, and Hall Road remained closed, affecting business activity in the city.
In Peshawar, business hubs such as Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Khyber Bazaar, Peepal Mandi, and Saddar observed a complete shutdown, with a protest camp set up at Rampura Gate.
Rawalpindi’s Raja Bazaar, Murree Road, and Saddar areas also witnessed deserted streets and closed shops, while business centers in Murree and Pakpattan were similarly shut. In Balochistan, markets in Quetta, Mastung, Kalat, and Khuzdar remained closed to express support for Gaza.
In Karachi, protesters staged a sit-in at Korangi Crossing Road, burning tyres and blocking traffic. Police reported diversions to alternative routes to manage the situation.
JI Ameer Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman said the strike demonstrated the nation's strong support for the Palestinian cause, declaring that Pakistanis would not tolerate the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Traders’ Alliance Distances Itself from Strike
Meanwhile, Karachi’s All City Traders' Alliance distanced itself from the strike, stating that markets like the Karachi Timber Market would remain open, having already shown solidarity earlier this month.
Some traders also filed complaints with the Sindh IG, alleging they received threats to close their businesses and requested police protection.
