In a violent surge of anti-American sentiment, at least nine individuals lost their lives and over two dozen were injured following tumultuous clashes outside the U.S. Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan. The incident marked a severe escalation in protests that drew hundreds of demonstrators to the diplomatic site.

The uproar was triggered by reports of the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, allegedly in a joint military operation by the U.S. and Israel. This development ignited a wave of anger among Shiite Muslims in Pakistan, fueling the protests.

Eyewitnesses recounted to The Associated Press that many of those involved in the protests were Shiite Muslims. Their fury was directed at the reported killing of Khamenei, with demonstrators accusing the U.S. of involvement. The atmosphere was charged as protesters shouted anti-American and anti-Israel slogans, making determined attempts to penetrate the consulate’s security perimeter.

The situation outside the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi turned deadly as protesters clashed with security forces, resulting in the tragic loss of life and numerous injuries. In response to the escalating violence, security forces deployed both police and paramilitary units in an effort to regain control and protect the compound.

At least nine people were killed after protesters clashed with security forces outside the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi, Pakistan. More than two dozen others were injured. (AP Photo/Muhammad Farooq)

Security forces deployed police and paramilitary units as clashes intensified outside the compound.

Between 25 and 30 people were wounded in the clashes, according to local officials.

Pakistani authorities tightened security around the consulate and other U.S. diplomatic missions in Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar amid fears the unrest could spread. The U.S. Embassy in Pakistan issued a security alert urging American citizens to monitor local news, avoid large crowds and remain vigilant.

Hundreds of demonstrators stormed the U.S. Consulate compound in Karachi after reports that Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a U.S.-Israeli strike. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)

“We are monitoring reports of ongoing demonstrations at the U.S. Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore, as well as calls for additional demonstrations at U.S. Embassy Islamabad and Consulate General Peshawar,” the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad said on X. “We advise U.S. citizens in Pakistan to monitor local news and observe good personal security practices, including being aware of your surroundings, avoiding large crowds, and ensuring your STEP registration is up to date.”

The violence comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States over Tehran’s nuclear program, regional influence and support for proxy groups.

Pakistani police and paramilitary forces respond as protesters attempt to breach the perimeter of the U.S. diplomatic mission in Karachi. (AP Photo/Ali Raza)

Pakistan has seen protests over what demonstrators describe as Western aggression.

The unrest comes as U.S. and Israeli forces continue coordinated strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, air defenses and command centers. The Pentagon named the mission Operation Epic Fury, while the Israel Defense Forces called its portion Operation Lion’s Roar. U.S. officials said the strikes aim to degrade Tehran’s military capabilities and neutralize what they describe as imminent threats to the United States and its allies.

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