The strike, organized by the Central Organization of Traders Pakistan (COTP), aimed to protest Israeli actions and advocate for a ban on Israeli products.
Kashif Chaudhry, President of the COTP, confirmed that businesses remained closed “from Khyber to Karachi,” with complete shutdowns reported in cities such as Gujranwala, Gujarat, Multan, Karachi, Hyderabad, Peshawar, and Quetta. He emphasized that the entire nation was expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine.
Chaudhry called on the Pakistani government to impose restrictions on Israeli imports and ban the production and sale of Israeli products within the country. He claimed that approximately $20 billion flows to Israel from Pakistan, which he argued could significantly help Pakistan’s economy if redirected. “Israel uses this money to purchase weapons that are then used against Palestinians,” he asserted.
The trade leader also highlighted broader economic concerns, urging the introduction of Pakistani brands and calling for reduced electricity and gas costs for industry to boost domestic production. He made an emotional appeal to fellow traders, suggesting that the boycott of Israeli products could create space for Pakistani businesses to grow.
This nationwide shutdown represents one of the largest coordinated business protests in recent Pakistani history, reflecting strong sentiments across the country regarding the ongoing situation in Gaza.
