The atmosphere in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore in Pakistan has erupted into chaos following the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in attacks orchestrated by the USA and Israel. Further turmoil has come to Skardu, located in the POK region. In Karachi, hundreds of protesters swarmed outside the American consulate. Initially peaceful, the demonstration turned violent by the afternoon, with reports of 12 deaths. In Lahore, large crowds also voiced their anger against America.
In Islamabad, the capital city, people took to the streets to protest Khamenei's death, chanting slogans against US President Donald Trump. To prevent a scenario similar to Karachi, a significant number of police and security personnel have been deployed in the area.
According to reports, protesters in Karachi assaulted the main gate of the consulate using hammers and iron rods, breaking it down as they forced their way in. During the protest, firebombs were hurled, igniting multiple parts of the consulate's structure, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky.
Security forces resorted to using tear gas and batons to restore control. Reports of shootings also emerged during the violent clash, resulting in at least 12 deaths, including protesters, rangers, and one civilian. Many others have been injured.
Recent Events: Pakistani Protesters Enter US Embassy in Karachi; 12 Killed in American Soldiers’ Firing
Social media videos showcase people breaking through the consulate gates, burning structures, and fleeing crowds. Slogans are painted across walls, and images of youth waving black flags have surfaced.
These events followed the USA-Israel orchestrated 'Operation Epic Fury,' which claimed the lives of several top Iranian leaders and targeted nuclear sites. Iran responded with missile attacks. The tension has significantly impacted Pakistan and the broader region.
Launched on Saturday, "Operation Epic Fury" has dramatically transformed the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Over 500 key targets in Iran, including missile sites, nuclear facilities, and major headquarters, were hit.
The operation reportedly killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with over 40 leading figures, including his daughter Boshra, son-in-law, daughter-in-law Zahra Haddad Adel, IRGC Commander Mohammad Pakpour, Defense Minister Amir Nasirzadeh, Ali Shamkhani, and Esmail Qaani. Altogether, more than 200 individuals perished, and approximately 747 were injured. In its aftermath, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that Iran's military and missile capabilities have now been diminished.
In retaliation, Iran unleashed severe responses, launching missile and drone attacks on Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, resulting in one death and 121 injuries. Strikes were also executed on Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Jordan successfully intercepted 49 missiles, and Iranian attacks on American bases were also reported. Iranian authorities have vowed a robust response to every assault, which has led to airspace closures throughout the region.