Ali Khamenei death sparks riots in Pakistan, deadly clashes outside US consulate

Karachi (The Uttam Hindu): Tension gripped Pakistan’s largest city Karachi after protests erupted following the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Demonstrators marching toward the United States Consulate Karachi clashed with security forces, leaving at least eight people dead and more than 30 injured. The violence broke out when protesters attempted to breach security barricades near the restricted diplomatic zone, prompting a strong response from authorities.

The protest reportedly began in the Sultanabad area and moved toward the consulate through the My Kolachi route, with crowds raising slogans against the United States and Israel. Police deployed heavy barricades to block the procession, but the situation escalated when some protesters tried to push through and began stone-pelting. Security personnel used tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to panic and chaos in the area.

Security around the consulate was tightened as tensions escalated, with armed personnel placed on high alert. Several people were reported killed during the confrontation, while many injured individuals were taken to nearby hospitals. Authorities sealed major roads and intersections around the diplomatic zone and urged residents to avoid the area, as protests and mourning gatherings were reported from several parts of the city.