Source: Al Jazeera
At least nine people were killed during protests in Karachi, an official told Al Jazeera, following demonstrations reportedly sparked by the murder of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
According to the report, security personnel opened fire early on Sunday to prevent hundreds of pro-Iranian protesters from storming the United States Consulate Karachi near Mai Kolachi Road, leaving several others injured.
Dr Summaiya Syed, a police surgeon, confirmed that at least nine bodies were brought to Karachi Civil Hospital.
Videos circulating online—later verified by Al Jazeera—show demonstrators attempting to breach the consulate’s perimeter, while injured individuals were seen being assisted by bystanders.
Protests Spread Beyond Karachi
The unrest was not confined to Karachi. Protests also broke out in other parts of Pakistan, including Skardu, located in the Shia-majority Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Local government spokesperson Shabbir Mir told Reuters that protesters set fire to a United Nations office in the area. He added that no casualties were reported during the incident.
Another witness, Aqeel Raza, said police prevented protesters from damaging security gates near the Karachi consulate without resorting to force.
Anger Over US Presence
Speaking to AFP, a masked protester identified as Ali said the reported killing of Khamenei had deeply affected demonstrators.
“The martyrdom of Sayyed Ali Khamenei has hurt us. We are here because we want the withdrawal of the occupying American forces from Iraq,” he said, referring to the remaining US-led coalition troops.
Another protester, Syed Towfeeq, 40, described the day as one of mourning:
“We are heavy-hearted. We are mourning our beloved leader, who was martyred. We all have a message for Donald Trump—we will always stand against your oppression.”
Authorities have increased security in major cities as investigations continue and fears of further unrest remain high.
