Why it matters:
The rally underscores Pakistan’s enduring solidarity with Palestine and highlights growing outrage in the Muslim world over the targeting of journalists, civilians, and media institutions in Gaza.
The big picture:
For nearly two years, Palestinian journalists have been documenting the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza amid Israel’s ongoing aggression, while Israel has murdered 269 reporters since October 2023.
On the evening of Sunday, August 10, Israel attacked a journalist's camp in Gaza, killing 6 Al-Jazeera journalists, including Anas al-Sharif, who was Al-Jazeera's senior journalist.
Demonstrators in Islamabad say their deaths represent not just a loss to Palestine but to global press freedom.
The protest also comes amid heightened criticism of Western governments, especially the United States, for enabling what speakers called a “live Holocaust.”
What they’re saying:
Speakers at the rally: “Israeli atrocities have crossed all limits; no hospitals, schools, or journalists are safe. Israel openly talks about occupying Gaza, which is unacceptable.”
Former Senator, Head of the Pakistan Palestine Forum: “We strongly condemn the terrorist Israeli regime for killing Anas Al-Sharif and his colleagues. The world either cannot or will not stop this genocide. The United States finances this Holocaust.”
Shehda Nafez, Palestinian student leader in Pakistan: “For two years, we’ve sent messages to stop the genocide. Our families are still in Palestine, and we remain hopeful for them.”
Female participant: “Our hearts bleed for you. We cry when we see the videos, and we pray for you day and night.”
Key points:
- Protesters carried Palestinian flags and photos of martyred journalists.
- Night prayers are held for the souls of Palestinian martyrs.
- Condemnations targeted Israel, the U.S., and the EU for their role or silence.
Go deeper:
Speakers noted that Israeli forces have also targeted the central office of Iran’s media, calling it an attack on freedom of information. They warned that despite such actions, global solidarity with Palestinians will only intensify.
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Hossein Vaez - seyed mohammad kazemi
