A complete shutter-down strike was observed in Lahore, Faisalabad, and various other cities across Pakistan on Thursday to show solidarity with the oppressed Muslims of Gaza and to protest against Israeli atrocities.
According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, Lahore’s major commercial hubs, including Azam Cloth Market, Akbari Mandi, Shah Alam Market, Hall Road, Neela Gumbad Bicycle Market, and Mall Road, remained completely shut.
As per the channel report, goods transporters also kept their truck terminals closed for the day as a mark of protest.
Businesses suspended in Lahore
President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mian Abuzar Shad, publicly announced support for the strike. He expressed unwavering solidarity with the people of Gaza and condemned the Israeli aggression, declaring that the business community stands united with the Palestinian cause.
Senior trader leader of Anarkali Bazaar and one of Lahore’s oldest market figures, Ashraf Bhatti, also lent his support to the shutter-down call.
Meanwhile, goods transporters, under the leadership of central leaders including Nabeel Mahmood, issued a circular declaring the closure of all transport terminals across the Lahore city in protest against Israeli oppression.
The city’s core commercial zones — including Azam Cloth Market, Pakistan Cloth Market, and the only grain market in Lahore, Akbari Mandi — all remained closed. Traders in Shah Alam Market and steel traders also suspended all business activities.
Mobile phone markets on Hall Road and all outlets on Mall Road—considered Lahore’s commercial lifeline—observed a closure in solidarity with the people of Gaza.
Strike in Faisalabad:
Similar scenes were witnessed in Faisalabad, where the local trader community expressed solidarity with Palestinians by observing a complete shutter-down strike.
Major markets, supermarkets, and commercial areas, including Ghanta Ghar Chowk and its eight adjoining bazaars, remained closed.
Khaal Market on Satiana Road, the Main Market in Jinnah Colony, and the Iron Market of Faisalabad were also shut completely, along with key marketplaces on Samundri Road, Sargodha Road, Sheikhupura Road, and Narwala Road.
The nationwide protest was a powerful expression of unity by Pakistan’s business community in support of the oppressed people of Gaza.
Reporters: Shahzad Khan and Mohammad Ali Naru