Violence Erupts in Pakistan Protests, Leaving 25 Dead

The death toll from violent protests in Pakistan has risen to at least 25 following demonstrations triggered by the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to an AFP tally on Monday, chaos erupted in several cities, particularly in Karachi, where protesters attempted to storm American diplomatic buildings.

In Karachi, a journalist from AFP witnessed hundreds of protesters trying to breach the United States consulate, resulting in clashes with law enforcement. The Karachi police surgeon’s office reported at least 10 deaths and over 70 injuries, with a hospital tally indicating that nine individuals died from gunshot wounds. In the northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan, at least 13 people were killed in confrontations between demonstrators and police forces. Reports detail that seven fatalities occurred in Gilgit, while six others died in Skardu.

In response to the escalating violence, authorities have imposed a late-night curfew in Gilgit and Skardu, which will remain in effect until Wednesday. Military personnel have been deployed on the streets to maintain order.

As protests continued in the capital, Islamabad, two additional deaths were reported. Thousands of demonstrators gathered, holding images of Khamenei. Police used tear gas to disperse crowds near the diplomatic enclave housing the US embassy, according to AFP journalists who were present.

The protests were ignited after military operations conducted by Israel and the United States resulted in Khamenei’s death on Saturday. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who maintains connections with both nations, condemned the killing as a “violation” of international law. Sharif remarked on social media platform X that it is a long-standing convention that heads of state should not be targeted. He expressed condolences on behalf of the people of Pakistan to those grieving in Iran.

Demonstrators in Karachi voiced strong opposition to the US and Israeli governments, with protester Sabir Hussain stating, “We don’t need anything in Pakistan that is linked with the US.” Tensions escalated further when a group of young individuals managed to breach the main gate of the US consulate, causing damage by breaking windows. Police responded with tear gas, compelling protesters to retreat.

In light of the unrest, both the United States and British embassies have issued warnings to their citizens in Pakistan, urging them to exercise caution.

The ongoing situation reflects deep-rooted sentiments and geopolitical tensions in the region, underscoring the impact of international events on domestic stability.