At least nine people have died after protests near the US consulate in Pakistan city Karachi turned violent following reports that Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in joint strikes.
A police doctor said the bodies were taken to a local hospital after security forces opened fire to disperse crowds trying to storm the compound early on Sunday. Several others were injured, officials confirmed.
The unrest follows Iranian announcements that Khamenei died during attacks blamed on United States and Israel. Washington has not confirmed the claim.
Witness footage showed wounded protesters carried away by bystanders as smoke rose near the consulate. Police said hundreds had gathered outside the site in anger over the reported killing.
Protests also spread across Pakistan. In Skardu, demonstrators burned a United Nations office, though officials reported no casualties. In Lahore, crowds gathered near another US diplomatic compound. Police there blocked attempts to damage the outer gate without using force.
Authorities in Islamabad said they expect further demonstrations near the diplomatic enclave later on Sunday.
Anger has also spread beyond Pakistan. Protests were reported in parts of Iraq, Morocco, and Indian-administered Kashmir. In Baghdad, pro-Iran demonstrators assembled outside the area that houses the US embassy.
Officials say tensions remain high as governments monitor reactions to the reported strike. No independent confirmation has verified the circumstances of Khamenei’s death, and international observers warn that unrest could widen if the situation escalates further.
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