The assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli air strike has ignited a firestorm of protests across the Muslim world. On Sunday, March 1, 2026, demonstrators in Pakistan, Iraq, and parts of India took to the streets, clashing with security forces and targeting Western diplomatic missions.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officially confirmed the “elimination” of the 86-year-old leader, describing the strike as a “precise, large-scale operation” targeting the heart of Tehran.
Pakistan: Bloodshed at the Karachi Consulate
The most violent protests occurred in Karachi, where at least nine people were killed following a desperate attempt by a pro-Iranian mob to storm the U.S. Consulate.
- The Breach: Hundreds of protesters breached the outer wall and smashed windows of the consular building on Mai Kolachi Road.
- Security Response: Paramilitary forces and police used tear gas and eventually opened fire to prevent the mob from entering the main compound.
- Nationwide Unrest: Massive rallies were also reported in Lahore, Islamabad, and Skardu, where protesters reportedly set fire to a United Nations office.
Iraq: Storming the Green Zone
In Baghdad, the situation remained critical as thousands of Iraqis, many dressed in black, attempted to breach the heavily fortified Green Zone.
- Targeting the U.S. Embassy: Protesters hurled stones and incendiary devices at security forces guarding the American embassy, demanding the immediate withdrawal of all “occupying” U.S. forces.
- Grief and Rage: Masked protesters told reporters that the “martyrdom” of Khamenei had “hurt the soul of the resistance.”
India: Tensions in Lucknow and Kashmir
As reported earlier, the Shia community in India has reacted with deep sorrow and anger:
- Lucknow: Thousands marched from Chota Imambara, chanting “Khamenei Amar Rahein” and burning effigies of Western leaders.
- Kashmir: Spontaneous shutdowns were observed in parts of Srinagar and Budgam. Authorities have increased security around diplomatic offices and sensitive religious sites to prevent any escalation.
The Military Escalation: Operation “Epic Fury”
While the streets burned, the military conflict showed no signs of slowing down:
- The Strike Toll: Along with Khamenei, nearly 40 senior Iranian officials, including the Defense Minister and the IRGC Chief, were reportedly killed in the first 12 hours of the U.S.-Israeli assault (codenamed Operation Epic Fury).
- Iran’s Retaliation: Tehran has launched waves of ballistic missiles targeting Tel Aviv, as well as U.S. bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar.
- Civilian Casualties: Iranian state media reports a staggering 201 deaths and over 700 injuries in the initial wave, including a tragic strike on a girls’ school in Hormozgan.
Status Update: March 1, 2026, 2:30 PM IST
| Country | Status | Action Taken |
| Iran | 40-Day Mourning | Cabinet vows “The gates of hell are open.” |
| Pakistan | High Alert | Security tightened at all Western missions; 9 dead in Karachi. |
| Iraq | Green Zone Siege | Security forces using water cannons and tear gas. |
| India | Strategic Neutrality | EAM Jaishankar calls for “Dialogue and Diplomacy.” |