Violent Protests Erupt at US Consulate in Karachi Following Khamenei's Death; 9 Killed
This is a developing story.
Hundreds of protesters stormed the entrance of the US Consulate in Karachi on Sunday, clashing with police and security forces amid outrage over the reported killing of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli airstrikes.
Demonstrators smashed windows, pelted stones, and attempted to set parts of the building on fire, leading to chaotic scenes and multiple injuries.
Local police and paramilitary units responded with tear gas, batons, and heavy shelling to disperse the crowd, which had gathered on MT Khan Road and tried to breach the consulate premises.
At least five people were injured in the initial clashes and were transported to nearby hospitals, according to rescue officials.
Witnesses reported plumes of smoke and panic as debris from the confrontations littered the area.
The situation escalated further when security forces, including guards at the consulate, reportedly opened fire on the protesters.
Local reports indicate multiple casualties, with one source claiming up to 10 civilians were killed in the gunfire.
Gunshots were heard as staff at the diplomatic mission pushed back the mob, though it remains unclear whether the firing originated from Pakistani security or US personnel.
Officials urged residents to avoid the area, and heightened security measures were implemented around the consulate.
The protests were organized by Shia groups and other demonstrators expressing solidarity with Iran, describing the strikes as a "blatant violation."
This incident is part of broader regional unrest following the airstrikes on Tehran, which have triggered demonstrations outside US diplomatic sites across the Middle East.
In response, the US State Department has restricted personnel movements at the Karachi consulate until Monday.
Authorities have not released official casualty figures, and the Pakistani government has yet to issue a full statement. The US Embassy in Islamabad has not commented specifically on the Karachi events but advised American citizens in Pakistan to exercise caution amid the escalating tensions.
The situation remains tense, with potential for further protests as global reactions to the Iran conflict continue to unfold. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.