JI Shifts Gaza Rally to Expressway Amid Red Zone Security Lockdown

In a notable turn of events, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) opted to relocate its Gaza Solidarity March from the heart of Islamabad’s Red Zone to the more accessible Islamabad Expressway. This decision came after an understanding was reached between the party leadership and the Islamabad administration, amid rising security concerns.

Originally, JI had planned to demonstrate outside the US Embassy at 3 PM on Sunday. However, with the government sealing off all key access routes to the Red Zone, including the areas around Serena Hotel, Nadra Chowk, Marriott Hotel, and Express Chowk, a venue change was deemed necessary.

While the Margalla Gate remained open for civilian access, it was heavily guarded. Despite adverse weather conditions and road closures, a group of JI supporters managed to reach Zero Point by around 3:45 PM, chanting slogans in support of Gaza and against Israeli actions and US policies. A larger crowd was expected to follow as the rally gained momentum.

JI’s Information Secretary for Islamabad, Amir Baloch, stated that the rally would now proceed along the Islamabad Expressway. A central stage was set up near the H8 Overhead Bridge, where JI’s top leadership, including Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, addressed the attendees.

In a press briefing, JI General Secretary Amirul Azeem clarified the new arrangements through a video message, asking supporters to gather at Zero Point, near the Srinagar Highway exit at Faizabad, instead of the previously announced Red Zone location.

Supporters from all walks of life, including legal professionals, educators, healthcare workers, businesspeople, and students, were reported to have taken part in the demonstration, reinforcing public solidarity with Palestinians suffering under the ongoing Israeli siege.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, with over 51,000 Palestinians reported killed since Israel’s military operations began in response to the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas. The conflict has resulted in widespread devastation, particularly to residential neighborhoods and healthcare infrastructure.

Traffic Diversion Advisory by Islamabad Police:

To manage the movement of both rally participants and regular commuters, the Islamabad Police issued an updated traffic plan, urging citizens to follow alternative routes.

• Red Zone Access Restricted: All major entry and exit points to the Red Zone were shut temporarily, including Serena Hotel, Nadra, Marriott, and Express Chowk.
• Suggested Routes to Secretariat: Commuters heading to the Secretariat or Red Zone were advised to take Margalla Road.
• Alternate Routes to Faizabad and Rawalpindi: Travelers were asked to use Kashmir Chowk, Srinagar Highway, 9th Avenue, or Double Road.
• For Express Chowk to Karaal: Use Old Airport Road, Rawal Dam Road, and 9th Avenue.
• Ojri Camp Commuters: Use Express Highway Dhok Kala Khan Service Road.
• Zero Point Access: Blocked for travel to Faizabad.
• Murree to Islamabad Route: Take Karaal Chowk via Rawal Dam, then connect through Rawal Road and Old Airport Road.
• New Airport to Murree/Bhara Kahu: Use Peshawar Sadar Road.
• Rawalpindi to Murree via Kashmir Highway: Route through 9th Avenue Double Road, Rawal Road, Latrar Road, and Park Road to Kashmir Chowk.

Shipping containers were placed on various roads to prevent unregulated access and ensure security during the rally.

FAQs for Pakistani Readers:

1. Why did JI move its Gaza rally from the Red Zone to the Expressway?

The change was made after an agreement with Islamabad authorities due to security concerns and blocked access routes to the Red Zone.

2. Where exactly was the rally held after the venue change?

The rally took place near Zero Point along the Islamabad Expressway, with a stage set up on the H8 Overhead Bridge.

3. Was the original protest plan targeting the US Embassy?

Yes, the initial plan was to gather outside the US Embassy to protest Israeli actions in Gaza and show solidarity with Palestinians.

4. Did weather conditions affect the turnout?

Yes, heavy rain and road blockades delayed the arrival of many protesters, although a smaller group reached the site by 3:45 PM.

5. How can commuters avoid disruptions during such events in Islamabad?

Stay updated with police advisories and use alternate routes like Margalla Road, Srinagar Highway, and 9th Avenue during citywide events.