On March 1, 2026, at least 23 protesters died in violent clashes across Pakistan amid growing anger following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The deaths resulted from joint U.S.-Israeli strikes that targeted Iran and killed Khamenei, igniting fury especially in Shia communities.
In Karachi, security forces at the U.S. Consulate shot into crowds that breached the outer barrier, killing at least 10 people many from gunfire, and injuring dozens.
Protesters chanted anti-U.S. and anti-Israel slogans during clashes with police using tear gas and live ammunition.
In Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, 11 people died after demonstrators set fire to a United Nations office amid intense confrontations.
Two additional deaths occurred in Islamabad during protests near diplomatic sites.
Reuters reports a total of 23 deaths nationwide, while sources like AP cite 22 or fewer in Karachi alone, with injuries exceeding 120 in some areas.
Hospitals reported numerous gunshot wound victims.
The protests underscore how the escalating U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict is fueling unrest in Pakistan, which has strong sectarian ties to Iran.
Authorities have increased security around foreign missions and called for peaceful protests.
As regional tensions mount, these events indicate possible wider spillover risks from the Middle East crisis.
The situation remains tense, with potential for more demonstrations in the coming days.
Administrator and Writer
