Nine Dead in Pakistan Protests After Khamenei Killing

At least nine people were killed as protests erupted across Pakistan following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli strike on February 28, 2026, according to officials and witnesses.

Demonstrations led by pro-Iran groups and members of the Shiite community broke out in several cities, condemning the attack and denouncing Washington and Tel Aviv.

Deadly Clash in Karachi

The most serious violence occurred in Karachi early Sunday near the United States Consulate on Mai Kolachi Road. Hundreds of protesters attempted to march toward the diplomatic compound, with some trying to breach security barriers.

Security forces opened fire to disperse the crowd, resulting in multiple casualties. Dr. Summaiya Syed, a police surgeon, confirmed that nine bodies were brought to Civil Hospital Karachi. Several others were reported injured. Video circulating online showed civilians carrying wounded individuals away from the scene.

Unrest in Other Cities

Protests were also reported in other parts of the country:

Skardu (Gilgit-Baltistan): In the Shia-majority northern region, protesters set fire to a United Nations office building. A local government spokesperson confirmed the building was destroyed, though no injuries were reported.

Lahore: Hundreds gathered outside the US consulate. Some demonstrators attempted to damage a security gate located some distance from the main compound, but police prevented further escalation without using live fire.

Islamabad: Authorities said additional demonstrations were expected near the diplomatic enclave, which houses the US embassy.

The unrest comes amid heightened regional tensions following the unprecedented strike on Iran’s top leadership, with authorities on high alert across major Pakistani cities.