At least nine people were killed near the United States consulate in Karachi, Pakistan, after violent protests erupted following the reported assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes, according to officials.
The incident occurred early Sunday morning when hundreds of pro-Iran protesters gathered outside the US diplomatic compound. Demonstrators were reportedly attempting to storm the consulate premises amid heightened anger over the developments in Iran.
Local authorities confirmed that security forces opened fire after protesters breached security barriers and moved toward restricted zones near the consulate. Several others were injured in the confrontation.
Officials stated that the situation escalated rapidly, forcing security personnel to act to prevent further damage and potential loss of life inside the diplomatic compound. The area has since been sealed off, and additional security has been deployed.
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and economic hub, has witnessed protests in the past linked to geopolitical developments in the Middle East. However, Sunday’s violence marks one of the deadliest incidents near a foreign diplomatic mission in recent years.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those killed. An investigation into the incident has been launched.
The reported assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has triggered widespread protests in several countries, reflecting the deep regional and sectarian sensitivities tied to Iran’s leadership.
Security remains on high alert across major Pakistani cities as officials brace for potential further demonstrations.
