Protests broke out across Pakistan on Sunday following US and Israeli strikes that reportedly killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Violent clashes were reported outside the US Consulate Karachi, leaving multiple people dead and dozens injured.
Demonstrations were also held in Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta. In several cities, protesters clashed with law enforcement personnel, who used tear gas and other measures to disperse crowds.
In Karachi, protesters gathered near the US Consulate and attempted to move toward the premises, reportedly throwing stones. Police responded with shelling and force to control the situation. Authorities confirmed at least nine deaths and 36 injuries. The injured and deceased were shifted to Civil Hospital Karachi. Officials stated that injuries were caused by gunfire, baton charges, and stampedes during the unrest.
The violence also disrupted traffic in Karachi. Roads from Sultanabad toward Mai Kolachi were closed, causing heavy congestion. Traffic police diverted vehicles from Jinnah Bridge toward II Chundrigar Road, redirected traffic at Mai Kolachi Phatak, and sent vehicles from PIDC back to ease pressure in affected areas.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar sought a detailed report from senior police officials and stated that no one would be allowed to take the law into their own hands.
In Islamabad, a rally near Embassy Road turned tense as police confronted demonstrators near Serena Chowk. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived at the site and appealed for calm. Authorities also blocked all roads leading to the Red Zone, which houses diplomatic missions and parliament.
The district administration imposed Section 144 in Islamabad, banning public gatherings. Officials warned that any assembly would be considered illegal and that strict legal action would be taken against those violating the order.
In Lahore, a protest organized by the Ittehad-e-Ummat Forum also turned tense after police used shelling to disperse participants. In Peshawar, authorities stopped demonstrators from marching toward the US Consulate.
Officials across the country have urged citizens to remain peaceful and avoid participating in unlawful gatherings amid heightened tensions.
