Nationwide Protests Erupt in Pakistan Over Khamenei Killing, Karachi Violence Leaves Nine Dead

ISLAMABAD: Nationwide protests erupted across Pakistan on Sunday following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes in Tehran. Demonstrations spread across major cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Karachi, with Shiite groups mobilizing in large numbers to express grief and solidarity with Iran.

In Islamabad, crowds of protesters have began marching toward D-Chowk, prompting authorities to impose Section 144, banning all public gatherings. Containers were placed at key entry points to the Red Zone, mobile and internet services were suspended in parts of the twin cities, and heavy police contingents were deployed to prevent escalation.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi appealed to citizens to protest peacefully, stressing that while Pakistan shares Iran’s grief, the law must be respected. “I urge the citizens to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and to express their protest in a peaceful manner,” he said.

Tensions escalated as protesters attempted to approach the Red Zone. Law enforcement officials deployed tear gas and baton charges at multiple points to disperse the crowd. Several demonstrators, including women and elderly individuals, were reportedly affected. Traffic disruptions were widespread in surrounding areas as authorities diverted vehicles and advised commuters to avoid protest hotspots.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with protesters gathering in hoards, chanting slogans in support of Iran. Police emphasized that movement toward the Red Zone could not be permitted due to security concerns, maintaining a strong presence across the city to prevent further escalation.

In Peshawar, hundreds of protesters marched toward the U.S. Consulate General to mourn Khamenei’s death. Roads leading to the consulate were heavily guarded, and security personnel were deployed across multiple access points. Demonstrators from other districts also joined the rally, swelling the crowds and intensifying security concerns. Authorities monitored the situation closely to prevent clashes, while urging citizens to remain peaceful.

Similar demonstrations were reported in Lahore and other urban centers, where protesters gathered to express solidarity with Iran. While most rallies remained peaceful, the protests in some areas grew tense, reflecting the depth of public anger over Khamenei’s killing. Security was tightened at diplomatic missions, government offices, and sensitive locations nationwide to prevent escalation.

The unrest had begun in Karachi earlier in the day, where hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the United States Consulate on Mai Kolachi Road. Violence broke out as protesters attempted to advance toward the consulate, clashing with law enforcement personnel.

Dr Mohammad Sabir Memon, executive director of the trauma centre at Civil Hospital Karachi, confirmed that nine men had died from injuries sustained during the clashes while more than 20 injured individuals were also treated at Civil Hospital including two police officers wounded by blunt objects and two protesters suffering from firearm injuries were admitted to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre.

According to the Edhi Foundation, law enforcement used tear gas and baton charges to disperse the crowd, resulting in chaotic scenes around the consulate and adjoining roads.

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar directed authorities to strengthen security at sensitive installations and ensure alternative traffic arrangements. Keamari Senior Superintendent of Police Amjad Ahmed Shaikh mobilized additional contingents, while Karachi Traffic Police closed both sides of the road from Sultanabad Traffic Section toward Mai Kolachi, diverting traffic from Jinnah Bridge to I.I. Chundrigar Road, turning back vehicles from Boat Basin at Mai Kolachi Phatak, and redirecting PIDC-bound traffic at Park Cut. Motorists were advised to contact the Traffic Helpline 1915 for updates.

Authorities across the country remain on high alert, with deployments at sensitive installations, diplomatic missions, and key urban areas. Citizens were urged to avoid protest zones and adhere to traffic diversions. Officials stressed that action would be taken under the law against anyone disturbing public order.

The nationwide protests highlight the strong reaction to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, with Shiite groups mobilizing in large numbers across Pakistan. While authorities attempt to contain unrest through restrictions and heavy security, the events in Karachi underscore the potential for deadly violence when demonstrations escalate. Investigations into the causes of fatalities and injuries are ongoing.