At least 25 people have been killed and dozens injured in Pakistan during violent protests that erupted after reports of the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, according to figures compiled by Agence France-Presse (AFP).
Demonstrations took place in several cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Islamabad, and areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. Many of the protests were directed against the United States and Israel, with demonstrators expressing anger over developments related to Iran.
Karachi protests and consulate incident
Violence was particularly intense in Karachi, where large crowds gathered in several areas of the city. Some demonstrators attempted to enter the United States Consulate General Karachi, prompting police to try to disperse the crowd.
According to a senior police official, at least 10 people were killed and more than 70 injured during clashes between protesters and security forces. Hospital records cited by AFP indicated that nine of the victims died from gunshot wounds.
Earlier reports from the previous day said at least eight people were killed and 12 injured near the consulate during protests and reported gunfire. Witnesses described chaotic scenes around the diplomatic compound, with protesters throwing stones and attempting to damage the facility.
Demonstrators also set fire to a traffic police post beneath the Sultanabad Bridge and gathered in large numbers at several locations across the city, including Numaish Chowrangi, Abbas Town and Tower, chanting slogans and blocking roads.
Clashes in Gilgit-Baltistan
Authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan said at least 13 people were killed during clashes between protesters and police.
Rescue officials reported that seven people died in Gilgit and six in Skardu. Following the violence, authorities imposed a night curfew in both cities, which is expected to remain in place until Wednesday. Security forces, including the army, have also been deployed in the area.
Demonstrations in Islamabad and Lahore
In Islamabad, thousands of people participated in protests, many carrying images of Ali Khamenei. According to AFP, two people were killed during the demonstrations.
Police used tear gas near the diplomatic enclave, where the Embassy of the United States, Islamabad is located, in an effort to disperse protesters approaching the area.
Meanwhile, protests were also reported in Lahore, where demonstrators gathered outside the Lahore Press Club to condemn the reported killing of the Iranian leader and what they described as attacks on Iran. Protesters chanted slogans against the United States and attempted to march toward the American consulate before police stopped them.
Authorities have not released a consolidated nationwide casualty figure, and the circumstances surrounding some of the deaths remain unclear. Security has been heightened in several cities amid concerns about further unrest.