Tensions gripped southern Karachi on Sunday as violent protests erupted near the US Consulate in the city’s financial district, leaving at least nine people dead and dozens injured, according to Pakistan’s media news. The clashes came a day after Iran’s supreme leader was reportedly killed in coordinated US-Israeli airstrikes on Tehran, an event that sent shockwaves across the wider region.
Hospital officials said nine bodies and 32 injured protesters were brought in, most suffering gunshot wounds. All injuries were caused by firearms, doctors said. Medical staff at another major public hospital also reported receiving bodies, while two wounded police officers and two protesters with gunshot injuries were treated at emergency units. Ambulances continued to arrive as crowds gathered outside and relatives searched for missing family members throughout the afternoon in Karachi citywide.
Witnesses said security forces used teargas and batons to disperse crowds after demonstrators breached the cordon around the consulate. The protest, initially peaceful, turned violent as anger over the leader’s death spread rapidly across.
Provincial authorities expressed deep grief over the loss of life, while insisting the situation spiraled after protesters resorted to vandalism. In a statement, officials confirmed several deaths but said an investigation was already underway. A high level joint team has been formed to determine the causes of the incident and identify those responsible. They urged restraint and pledged transparency in the probe process.
The provincial interior minister directed police to tighten security around sensitive sites and ensure order across the city. No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands, he said, calling for calm and vowing legal action against those disturbing peace. Additional units were deployed near foreign missions and key installations throughout the metropolitan area.
Traffic chaos followed the clashes as police shut down a major coastal road in both directions. Vehicles were diverted to alternative routes. Authorities urged residents to check conditions and avoid protest areas for safety until further notice during the evening.
Meanwhile, authorities in the capital imposed emergency public-order measures, banning all public gatherings. Any kind of protest or demonstration will be considered unlawful, an official statement said, urging residents to maintain peace and avoid crowds across the city.
The US Embassy issued an advisory for American citizens in Pakistan to remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, and ensure their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program registration is updated at this time.
