At least ten people were killed and around two dozen injured after violent clashes erupted outside the United States Consulate General Karachi in Karachi on March 1, 2026. The unrest followed reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in joint US-Israeli strikes.
Authorities confirmed that hundreds of Shiite Muslim protesters attempted to storm the consulate premises, leading to confrontations with police and paramilitary forces.
Death Toll Rises After Critical Injuries
According to hospital officials, six bodies were initially brought to the city’s main government hospital. However, three critically injured victims later succumbed to their wounds, raising the death toll to ten. Around 25 others sustained injuries, with several reported to be in critical condition.
Police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed Tariq confirmed the casualties, stating emergency services remained on high alert.
Also Read: Iran Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei martyred in US-Israel strikes
Police Regain Control After Violent Clashes
Senior police official Irfan Baloch said protesters briefly attacked the consulate’s perimeter, smashed windows, and torched a nearby police post before security forces dispersed the crowd.
He denied reports that the consulate building was set ablaze, emphasizing that the situation was brought under control after swift intervention by police and paramilitary personnel.
Witnesses reported that some demonstrators attempted to set parts of the building on fire before being pushed back.
Protests Spread to Lahore, Multan and Islamabad
Demonstrations were also reported in Lahore, where protesters gathered near the US diplomatic compound but were prevented from advancing. Police dispersed the crowd to avoid escalation.
In Multan, Shiite groups held a largely peaceful rally condemning the killing of Khamenei, chanting slogans against the United States and Israel.
Authorities confirmed that additional protests were planned in Islamabad and other cities, prompting enhanced security around the Embassy of the United States, Islamabad and American consulates nationwide.
Government Urges Calm Amid Rising Tensions
The provincial government of Sindh urged citizens to remain peaceful and avoid violence, warning of strict action against vandalism and attacks on public property.
Shiites make up nearly 15% of Pakistan’s 250 million population and have historically organized anti-Israel and anti-US protests, though violence of this scale remains rare.
The Karachi unrest underscores heightened regional tensions following developments in Iran, with authorities bracing for potential further demonstrations.
