Islamabad, September 26, 2025 — Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman expressed strong solidarity with the humanitarian flotilla heading to Gaza and called for heightened global support for the Palestinian people during a press briefing on Friday.
Speaking to reporters, Rehman stated, “Jamaat-e-Islami fully supports the flotilla, and the aid workers on board are sending a powerful message to the entire world. We must continue to strengthen the global wave of solidarity for Palestine.”
The remarks come amid mounting international concern over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have claimed more than 65,500 Palestinian lives and injured over 167,000 since October 2023. Thousands remain trapped under rubble as rescue efforts continue. The humanitarian convoy, named the Global Sumud Flotilla, comprises nearly 20 ships carrying aid and delegates from 44 countries, including Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Thailand, Maldives, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Notable global figures such as Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela are also participating in the mission.
Rehman highlighted JI’s ongoing campaign of solidarity with Gaza, noting that the party has temporarily suspended regular political activities to focus on humanitarian efforts. He outlined planned marches toward the US embassy, international outreach, and appeals to countries like Turkey, Iran, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, in addition to writing to the UN Secretary-General.
Addressing the role of the United States, Rehman criticized Washington for allegedly supporting Israel, describing the recent attack on the Qatar negotiation team as “the biggest fascism” carried out under former President Donald Trump’s orders. He accused the US of deception while Israel continues its military operations in Palestine.
While acknowledging Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent engagement with President Trump at the UN General Assembly, Rehman stressed that US support has consistently bolstered Israel’s actions, calling for the international community to hold Israel accountable for what he described as “genocide against Palestinians” and the destruction of tens of thousands of homes in the West Bank.
