Pakistan cities under curfew after 23 die in pro-Iran protests over Khamenei killing
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressMarch 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Pakistani authorities have imposed a three-day curfew in the northern cities of Gilgit and Skardu following violent protests triggered by the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. The unrest began on Sunday when thousands of Shiite demonstrators attacked UN offices, including the UN Military Observer Group monitoring the Kashmir ceasefire, amid reports of several deaths and injuries. To restore order, troops were deployed, and a strict curfew was enforced before dawn on Monday.
The protests, driven by pro-Iran sentiment, escalated rapidly as demonstrators expressed solidarity with Iran following Khamenei’s death. Shiite communities in Pakistan, particularly in the northern regions, have long-standing ties to Iran, which has often strained relations with Western powers. The attack on UN offices, a rare occurrence in the region, highlights the volatile situation and raises concerns over potential escalations between Islamabad and international bodies.
This development comes amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and both Iran and its Western allies. While Pakistan has historically maintained diplomatic ties with both camps, the killing of Khamenei has intensified pro-Iran sentiment domestically. The curfews reflect the government’s efforts to control the situation, but analysts warn that long-term stability could be at risk if anti-Western rhetoric continues to fuel public anger.
The incident underscores the delicate balance Pakistan must maintain in its foreign policy, particularly given its strategic location between Iran and India, as well as its role in international security frameworks. The targeting of UN offices adds another layer of complexity, potentially straining Islamabad’s relations with global institutions and raising questions about regional stability.
For readers interested in global politics, the situation highlights the interconnectedness of conflicts in the Middle East and their spillover effects on South Asia. Pakistan’s response to these protests will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how other nations handle similar demonstrations linked to international crises.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/3/2026