ISLAMABAD — Thousands of supporters from Pakistan’s main religious political party rallied in the capital, Islamabad, on Sunday against Israel’s bombing of Palestinians in Gaza, chanting anti-American slogans and accusing the U.S. of “backing the aggressor.”
The Jamaat-e-Islami party initially announced a march to the U.S. Embassy in the city’s high-security diplomatic enclave. But tough action from authorities the previous night forced the party to change its plans and hold the rally in a major street away from the protected enclave. Police pulled down the party’s encampments on Saturday night, detaining the local leadership and dozens of supporters.
Because of the Jamaat-e-Islami plan and the risk of violence, the U.S. Embassy issued an advisory for American citizens living in Islamabad and the surrounding area to “limit unnecessary travel on Sunday.” It advised them to avoid large public gatherings, to exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of a large gathering or demonstration, and to review personal security plans.
Jamaat-e-Islami supporters, including women and children, marched for several miles to reach the agreed protest venue. They held banners and posters with slogans opposing Israel and the United States and in support of the Palestinians.