At least 35 civilians have been confirmed dead as protests against US-Israel military operations in Iran escalated across various cities in Pakistan. The demonstrations were triggered by the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading to widespread unrest in the region. Local sources indicated that the fatalities included 16 in Karachi, seven in Gilgit, six in Skardu, and six in Islamabad, as violence erupted between Shia demonstrators and security forces.

Details of Casualties and Protests

In Karachi, reports suggest that some fatalities resulted from gunfire involving a US Marine Corps security detail and local police during protests near diplomatic installations. Violence also occurred in Islamabad, Skardu, and Gilgit, with security forces employing measures to disperse the crowds, resulting in several injuries in Peshawar. The protests were marked by significant unrest, reflecting the heightened tensions in the region following the recent geopolitical developments.

Curfew Enforced in Gilgit-Baltistan

As the situation deteriorated, the government of Gilgit-Baltistan imposed a curfew and requested military assistance from the Pakistan Army. A formal communication from the Home and Prisons Department, dated March 1, 2026, directed deployment in sensitive areas of Gilgit and Skardu, anticipating further large-scale protests in reaction to events unfolding in Iran.

Emergency Measures in Punjab Hospitals

In response to the surge in violence, the provincial government of Punjab declared a hospital emergency late Sunday night. The initiative aimed to manage the influx of casualties linked to protest activities. Authorities took steps to bolster emergency medical services as confrontations surged across urban centers in the province.

US Diplomatic Missions Scale Back Operations

The US Embassy in Islamabad announced the cancellation of all visa and American Citizen Services appointments for March 2 at its various missions, including consulates in Karachi and Lahore. The embassy indicated that monitoring of ongoing demonstrations, particularly violent protests occurring near the US Consulate General in Karachi, is underway. US personnel have been instructed to minimize movement until conditions improve.

Advisories for American Citizens

In light of the unrest, American citizens in Pakistan have been advised to steer clear of large gatherings, remain vigilant concerning personal security, carry proper identification, and stay updated with local media for information on the evolving situation. This advisory reflects the seriousness of the protests and aims to ensure the safety of US nationals in the country.

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