Violent protests erupted across Pakistan after a joint United States–Israel strike reportedly killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s top leader. At least 20 people were reported dead as demonstrators clashed with security forces in several cities.
Large crowds took to the streets of Karachi and Islamabad, chanting anti U.S. and anti Israel slogans and condemning the strike on Iran. In Karachi, protesters attempted to approach diplomatic and commercial areas, prompting police to use tear gas and live fire to disperse the crowds.
Authorities said the unrest began shortly after news of the strike spread through social media and local networks. Demonstrations quickly turned violent in some locations, with vehicles set ablaze and public buildings damaged. Hospitals reported dozens of injured, many suffering from gunshot wounds and tear gas exposure.
The Pakistani government deployed additional security forces to sensitive areas and temporarily restricted large public gatherings. Officials appealed for calm, warning that continued violence could further destabilize the country at a time of heightened regional tension.
The killing of Iran’s long time leader has triggered outrage across parts of the Muslim world, but the reaction in Pakistan has been among the most intense. Analysts say deep political and religious sentiment, combined with anger over foreign military action, fueled the scale of the protests.
Regional and international leaders have urged restraint, warning that the crisis risks widening into a broader conflict if tensions continue to spiral.
