Thousands of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) supporters began marching towards Islamabad on Saturday after violent anti-Israel protests in Lahore. The protests started Thursday, with TLP opposing the US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. On Friday, demonstrations turned violent, leading to clashes between police and protesters in Lahore.
Police responded with baton charges and tear gas after protesters threw stones and resisted roadblocks. As a result, over 50 police officers were injured, according to officials. TLP claims that some of its members were killed, but those reports remain unverified. Authorities have since shut down mobile internet services in parts of Lahore and Islamabad. They also placed shipping containers on major roads to block the march.
Read more: TLP begins march on Islamabad; clashes reported in Lahore
TLP leaders say the march is purely a show of solidarity with Gaza and not aimed at pressuring the Pakistani government. Allama Muhammad Irfan, a senior TLP figure, told AFP that they had no demands apart from supporting Palestinians. He added that the government had responded with force and no negotiations were taking place. Protesters said they were determined to continue despite obstacles.
In response, Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry vowed to stop the march from entering Islamabad. He said the capital would not allow any radical activity. Chaudhry also questioned why a ceasefire acceptable to Hamas was unacceptable to TLP. He emphasized that peace in the region should not be undermined by local unrest.
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Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the Gaza ceasefire and called it a step toward lasting peace. He pledged Pakistan’s continued support for Palestinians through diplomatic channels. The situation in the capital remains tense as authorities prepare for potential escalation. Public movement and internet access are expected to remain restricted until the situation stabilizes.