Thousands Rally in Lahore to Protest Israel’s Seizure of Gaza Aid Flotilla

Thousands of people took to the streets of Lahore on Thursday to protest Israel’s interception of a Gaza aid flotilla. Demonstrators demanded the release of detained humanitarian activists and called for an end to the blockade on Gaza.

Details of the Protest

The rally was organized by pro-Palestinian groups and civil society organizations. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and shouted slogans like “Free Gaza” and “Stop the blockade.” Large banners reading “Humanity Above Politics” and “Aid Is Not a Crime” were displayed throughout the march.

The protest began near The Mall Road and ended at the Press Club, where speakers urged the international community to take action against what they called violations of humanitarian law.

“These activists were delivering food and medicine, not weapons. Stopping humanitarian aid in international waters is unacceptable,” said a senior protest leader.

Flotilla Interception and Global Reactions

Earlier this week, the Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying more than 40 civilian boats with medical supplies, food, and volunteers, was intercepted by Israeli naval forces. Several participants, including journalists and lawmakers, were detained.

Israel claimed the flotilla violated its naval blockade, while human rights groups called the move a breach of international maritime law. The incident sparked global protests and criticism in countries like Turkey, Malaysia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

Solidarity Across Pakistan

Protests similar to Lahore’s were reported in Karachi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, and Multan. Students, activists, and political leaders rallied to show support for Palestinians and condemn Israel’s actions.

Demonstrators urged the Pakistani government to take regional diplomatic steps and lodge complaints with the United Nations. Social media hashtags such as #LahoreForPalestine, #FreeGaza, and #EndTheBlockade helped spread the message nationwide.

Government and Political Reactions

Pakistan’s Foreign Office has reiterated its support for the Palestinian cause. Politicians and religious leaders called Israel’s actions a violation of human rights. Lawmakers emphasized that Muslim nations should act together to ensure safe delivery of aid to Gaza.

The blockade, in place since 2007, restricts the movement of goods and people, leaving over 2 million Palestinians with shortages of food, water, and medicine. Human rights organizations and the United Nations have repeatedly described it as collective punishment.

Background

International activists have repeatedly tried to break the blockade using aid flotillas. These efforts have often faced interception by Israeli forces, sparking debates about the legality of the siege and drawing global attention to the humanitarian crisis.

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