Violent protests erupted across multiple cities in Pakistan on March 1, 2026, following reports of the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike, resulting in widespread clashes with security forces and a significant loss of life.
At least 23 people were killed during the unrest, with deaths recorded in major centres including Karachi, Skardu, and Islamabad, while dozens more were injured amid confrontations between demonstrators and police.
Clashes Outside US Consulate in Karachi
In Pakistan’s largest city, a large crowd gathered outside the US consulate in Karachi to protest the reported strike that claimed Khamenei’s life. Demonstrators chanted anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans and attempted to force entry into the diplomatic compound.
Security forces deployed tear gas and live firing to disperse the crowd as stone-pelting escalated. The chaos led to at least 10 protesters being killed in the clashes, and nearly 100 others were injured, many with bullet wounds, according to police medico-legal reports.
Traffic disruptions were widespread as authorities moved in with reinforcements, and the Sindh Rangers warned that acts of vandalism would attract strict action.
Violence in Skardu and Other Cities
Protests also turned deadly in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, where crowds torched a UN office and engaged in confrontations with law enforcement. Local officials said at least 11 people were killed in the unrest there, though figures varied slightly between sources.
Elsewhere in the capital, Islamabad, hundreds of protesters carrying black flags clashed with police near the Red Zone, attempting to march toward the US Embassy despite heavy security and barriers. Two people were confirmed dead, and several were injured in these exchanges.
Protests were also reported in other major cities, including Lahore, Peshawar and Multan, where smaller clashes and police responses were documented amid growing national unrest.
Government Response and Security Measures
In an effort to maintain order, authorities imposed Section 144 restrictions, banning large public gatherings, rallies and demonstrations in affected areas. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi appealed for peace and urged demonstrators to express their grievances without violence.
The Punjab government and Islamabad authorities emphasised precautionary measures and heightened security deployment around key diplomatic zones.
The protests followed widespread anger over international developments related to Iran, with millions rallying in solidarity and outrage across parts of Pakistan.
