At least 22 people have been killed and 88 injured in violent protests across Pakistan following reports of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes.
Clashes between demonstrators and security forces were reported in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, with authorities making multiple arrests and placing major cities on high alert.
Karachi recorded the highest casualties, with 10 people killed and 48 injured - of which at least 6 were in a critical condition - during clashes near the U.S. Consulate on Mai Kolachi Road, hospital officials said.
Dr Mohammad Sabir Memon, executive director of Civil Hospital Karachi’s trauma center confirmed the casualties to Nukta earlier today.
Hundreds of protesters attempted to storm the consulate following the reported assassination of Khamenei. A crowd climbed over the main gate, entered the driveway and smashed windows before police responded with tear gas. Videos circulating on social media showed protesters damaging property as the American flag flew above the compound.
“We need to remain united. No power can stop us,” a young protester could be heard saying in one video. Another said: “We are setting the American consulate in Karachi on fire. God willing, we are avenging the killing of our leader.”
Edhi said law enforcement personnel used tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd, while ambulances shifted the injured to Civil Hospital.
Several arrests were later made, with leaders of the protest asking the remaining protesters to gather at Numaish Chowrangi for the funeral prayers of those killed.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar sought immediate details from Karachi Additional Inspector General of Police Azad Khan. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands,” Lanjar was quoted as saying, directing that security at sensitive installations be strengthened and alternative traffic routes arranged.
Three killed in Islamabad
In the federal capital, three protesters were killed and 30 others injured as demonstrations turned violent. Hospital officials said nine injured protesters were taken to Polyclinic Hospital and eight to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
The victim, identified as Ali Raza, son of Muhammad Hassan, later died at PIMS.
The violence also left five security personnel injured, including three Islamabad Police officials and two Pakistan Rangers personnel, who were shifted to PIMS.
Protesters gathered in large numbers and attempted to march toward sensitive areas, including diplomatic zones. Police used tear gas after demonstrators allegedly resorted to stone-pelting and attempted to breach barricades. Authorities have placed the capital on high alert, deploying additional forces and warning of strict action against those involved in violence.
Nine killed in Gilgit-Baltistan
In Gilgit, nine people were killed in clashes with security forces and 10 injured, according to local reports. The deceased included residents from Bagrot Valley, Astore, Hunza, Jutial and Naltar Valley. Officials have not provided further details about the circumstances of the confrontation.
Internet services were suspended in the region as a precautionary measure, with authorities citing concerns over misinformation and law and order. Security has been heightened across Gilgit-Baltistan as officials continue to monitor the situation.
Speaking to Nukta, GB spokesperson Shabir Mir said the situation is currently under control, with security forces on high alert. However, all educational institutions and government offices will remain closed on Monday. “Protests are also expected tomorrow; therefore, a public holiday has been declared,” Mir said.
He added that while the right to protest is a democratic entitlement, damage to public property or government offices would not be tolerated. “Anyone taking the law into their own hands will face strict action,” he warned.
Yar Muhammad, the Caretaker Chief Minister of GB, stated that the protest should remain peaceful, emphasizing that hostile elements are seeking to create instability in the region.
He said that responding with calm and restraint would send a strong message. “Youth and religious scholars must play their role, as enemies are attempting to destabilize the region by creating miscreants,” he added.
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