A major protest outside the United States consulate in Karachi turned deadly on Sunday, with local media reporting that several demonstrators were killed and many others injured during clashes with security personnel.

The unrest reportedly began when protesters gathered near the diplomatic compound to condemn the recent military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran. Demonstrators attempted to push toward restricted zones around the consulate, prompting heightened security measures.

According to Pakistani media outlets, security staff inside the diplomatic compound opened fire as the crowd allegedly tried to breach the protected perimeter. Reports suggested that at least a dozen protesters may have died and more than thirty people were injured, though these figures have not been officially confirmed by authorities from either the United States or Pakistan.

Demonstrations were not limited to Karachi. In Lahore, groups of protesters staged a sit-in near the US consulate, voicing anger over the regional conflict and the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

The United States Embassy Islamabad stated that it was closely watching developments in Karachi and Lahore, while also monitoring calls for additional demonstrations near American diplomatic missions across Pakistan.

Officials also urged US citizens living in or visiting Pakistan to stay alert, follow local news updates and avoid large gatherings as tensions remain high.

Protests Intensify Near Diplomatic Zone

Much of the unrest in Karachi occurred near the city’s diplomatic enclave. Demonstrators, many linked to Shia organisations, marched through areas including Sultanabad and the Mai Kolachi corridor while chanting slogans against Washington and Tel Aviv.

Police sealed off several key roads, including MT Khan Road, to prevent crowds from moving closer to the consulate. Security forces fired tear gas to disperse protesters after some participants reportedly threw stones and attempted to cross barricades.

Traffic authorities issued warnings advising commuters to avoid the area as clashes continued.

Confrontation Triggers Gunfire Claims

As tensions escalated and protesters advanced toward the diplomatic compound, US Marine guards responsible for protecting the facility were placed on high alert.

Pakistani broadcaster Samaa TV reported that gunfire occurred when protesters attempted to breach security lines around the consulate. The outlet claimed multiple casualties, though officials have yet to verify the details of the incident.

Independent confirmation of the reported deaths has not been issued by either Pakistani authorities or US officials.

Demonstrations Spread to Other Regions

Protests connected to the crisis were also reported across several parts of Pakistan.

In Skardu, demonstrators attacked and set fire to a building belonging to the United Nations. Local officials confirmed that the structure was burned but said there were no reports of injuries.

Meanwhile, hundreds of protesters gathered near the US consulate in Lahore. Demonstrators offered prayers on the road leading to the facility before chanting slogans condemning US military action against Iran.

Police maintained a heavy security presence and prevented protesters from reaching the consulate compound. Witnesses said some individuals attempted to damage a security gate located some distance from the building, but officers stopped them before the situation escalated.

Regional Crisis Fuels Anger

The protests follow heightened tensions across the Middle East after reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, was killed during joint US-Israeli strikes.

The development has triggered demonstrations in several countries with significant Shia populations, including Pakistan.

Security was tightened late Sunday across Karachi’s diplomatic district as authorities deployed additional forces to prevent further violence.

Pro-Iran gatherings were also reported in Baghdad, where crowds assembled near the Embassy of the United States, Baghdad before security forces used tear gas to disperse them.