Anger on Pakistan streets, 20 dead, after US-Israel strike kills Khamenei
Al Jazeera
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Protests erupted across Pakistan following the US-Israeli strike in Tehran that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, resulting in 20 deaths and widespread violence. Demonstrations were primarily led by Shia Muslims, who make up about 20% of Pakistan's population, with clashes turning deadly in cities like Karachi, Skardu, and Islamabad. In Karachi, at least ten people were killed as protesters clashed with security forces near the US Consulate. Similarly, eight died in Skardu, and two in Islamabad as authorities used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.
In Islamabad, thousands gathered near the Red Zone, a heavily fortified area containing foreign embassies and government buildings. Protesters chanted slogans against the US and Israel, calling for revenge. Syed Nayab Zehra, a 28-year-old protester, expressed frustration with her government's stance, stating, "We are here to remind the world that we will seek revenge." Meanwhile, security forces fired tear gas and rubber bullets, injuring several people, including Mouwaddid Hussain, who accused authorities of breaking their promise to allow peaceful protests.
The Pakistani government condemned both the US-Israel attack on Iran and Iran's subsequent retaliatory actions targeting Gulf nations. However, public sentiment ran high as Shia communities across Pakistan expressed solidarity with Iran, despite the country's predominantly Sunni Muslim population. The situation highlights the complex geopolitical tensions between major powers and their impact on regional stability.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/2/2026