Thousands of members of Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) began marching towards Islamabad on Saturday, following violent clashes with police in Lahore during protests against the US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

What started as a political demonstration has now evolved into a humanitarian expression of solidarity with the people of Gaza, according to the TLP.

Protesters, many carrying Palestinian flags and chanting for peace, say their aim is to “stand with the oppressed.”

However, the march has also caused widespread disruption across Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with major highways sealed, containers blocking intersections, and mobile networks suspended in several areas.

Residents have voiced frustration over traffic gridlocks, long commutes, and communication blackouts.

Despite these challenges, the underlying sentiment among the demonstrators remains one of empathy and outrage over the suffering in Gaza.

“We have no demands apart from showing solidarity with the people of Gaza,” said Allama Muhammad Irfan, a senior TLP leader.

Authorities, on the other hand, have vowed to maintain order and prevent the protesters from entering the capital, stressing that “there is no space for radical activity in Islamabad.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as a “historic opportunity to secure lasting peace,” reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to working with international partners to ensure peace, dignity, and justice for the Palestinian people.

Though roads remain blocked and tensions high, the protests echo a deeper humanitarian message — a call for compassion, peace, and solidarity with those enduring unimaginable suffering in Gaza.