Islamabad (Staff Reporter)
Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, flanked by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, strongly condemned the violent protests in Pakistan carried out under the pretext of supporting Palestine. Speaking at a joint press conference in the federal capital, the ministers emphasized that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, violent acts will not be tolerated.
Atta Tarar stated that Pakistan has consistently raised the issue of Palestine on every international forum and supported the Palestinian cause through all possible diplomatic and humanitarian means. “Palestinians were seen bowing in gratitude after the ceasefire agreement. Peaceful demonstrations were held across the world — from London to Rome — and not a single pot was broken. In contrast, in Pakistan, protests turned violent,” he remarked.
He criticized the use of modern weapons, knives, and daggers by demonstrators, questioning how such protests serve the Palestinian cause. Tarar lamented the martyrdom of a police inspector who was shot 21 times and revealed that over 100 police personnel were injured during the violence. “We will not allow chaos, arson, and the destruction of public peace under any circumstances,” he declared.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi echoed the sentiment, stating that the government had engaged in continuous dialogue with the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), even offering safe passage to protesters. However, he claimed that the group repeatedly introduced new conditions, stalling progress. “Raising the slogan ‘Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah’ is something we all cherish, but that does not justify violence,” he said.
Naqvi clarified that actions were taken only against violent elements, and that law enforcement ensured roads were cleared for public use. “Those who helped restore order deserve appreciation,” he added, denying allegations that the government avoided negotiations with TLP.
Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf added that TLP protesters opened fire on police forces and were responsible for widespread destruction. “Those who fired bullets and caused mayhem will face legal consequences,” he stated, urging the public to participate in thanksgiving prayers being held by religious scholars in gratitude for the ceasefire in Gaza.
The federal ministers concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining peace, while standing firmly with the Palestinian people through legitimate and peaceful means.