Violent protests swept across Pakistan following the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Clashes from Karachi to PoK have reportedly left 35 people dead and over 100 injured. Hospitals were placed on emergency alert as security forces confronted demonstrators.
35 Killed in Karachi to PoK Unrest Amid Anti-US, Anti-Israel Anger
Islamabad: Violent protests have erupted in several cities across Pakistan in protest of the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. These protests, which are being held against US-Israeli attacks, have escalated from Karachi to Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). According to media reports, at least 35 people have died so far, while more than 100 are reported injured. However, the Pakistani government has not officially confirmed these figures.
According to reports, 16 people have died in Karachi, seven in Gilgit, six in Skardu, and six in Islamabad. Sources claim that several people were injured in the clashes between security forces and the US Marine Corps. As the situation worsened, the Punjab government declared a hospital emergency, while an alert has been issued in other provinces. Heavy police force has been deployed in Shia-dominated areas.
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According to sources, some hospitals in Islamabad and other cities have been instructed not to release actual figures. Sharing figures of the injured and dead has reportedly been limited after initial reports emerged. Authorities have increased security in several cities and appealed to the public to maintain peace.
According to Karachi Police Surgeon Dr. Sumaiya Syed Tariq, 10 people have been confirmed dead and 97 injured in the city. 41 people were injured in the protest outside the US Consulate. Many injured are being treated at Jinnah Central Hospital (JPMC), Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), and Fatemia Hospital, some of whom are reported to be in critical condition.
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The U.S. Embassy Islamabad has advised American citizens living in Pakistan to monitor local news, avoid crowded areas, and take safety precautions. The embassy has stated that it will closely monitor potential protests in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar.
The situation in Pakistan remains tense, and security agencies are closely monitoring the situation.
