Pakistan Curfew: Protests Erupt After Khamenei Killing, U.S. Consulate Attacked

Pakistan Deploys Troops, Imposes Curfew After Protests Over Khamenei’s Death

ISLAMABAD — Pakistani authorities deployed troops and imposed a three-day curfew starting Monday in the Gilgit and Skardu districts of Gilgit-Baltistan following violent protests sparked by the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The unrest, fueled by anger over what demonstrators believe were U.S.-Israeli strikes responsible for his death, has resulted in at least 11 confirmed fatalities in the Skardu district and widespread damage to infrastructure, including UN offices and government buildings.

The situation unfolded rapidly on Sunday, with thousands of protesters taking to the streets across Pakistan, particularly in areas with significant Shiite populations. The demonstrations quickly escalated into violence, targeting symbols of international presence and Pakistani state authority. The imposition of the curfew and deployment of troops signals a significant escalation in the government’s response to the unrest, reflecting concerns about further deterioration of law and order.

Violence Erupts Across Gilgit-Baltistan and Beyond

The most severe violence was concentrated in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region strategically located along the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Protesters in Skardu reportedly attacked and torched the offices of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP), a school, the office of the Superintendent of Police, and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) office. Similar attacks on the UNMOGIP office were reported in Gilgit city.

According to officials, at least 11 people died after security officials opened fire on protesters in Skardu as they vandalized and set fire to the UN office. Eighty others were injured in the region. Ghulam Hasan, an official of the Gilgit-Baltistan administration, issued a notification requesting the deployment of the Pakistan Army to Gilgit and Skardu to prevent further escalation and protect lives and property. The curfew is initially set for three days – March 2nd, 3rd, and 4th.

The unrest wasn’t limited to Gilgit-Baltistan. In Karachi, protesters stormed the U.S. Consulate, damaging property and clashing with police. Ten people were killed and over 50 injured in Karachi during these confrontations. A separate incident in Islamabad resulted in one fatality during an attempted march toward the U.S. Embassy.

UN Response and Security Measures

The United Nations has acknowledged the violence targeting its facilities. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric stated on Monday that protesters became violent near the UNMOGIP Field Station, resulting in vandalism. He emphasized that the safety and security of UN personnel and premises remain a top priority.

In response to the escalating tensions, Pakistani authorities have heightened security around U.S. Diplomatic missions nationwide, including the consulate in Peshawar. The U.S. Embassy and consulates in Karachi and Lahore have suspended visa appointments and American Citizen Services, citing security concerns.

Context: A Region on Edge

The protests are rooted in deep-seated anger over the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was seen as a key figure in the region’s Shiite community. Demonstrators voiced opposition to alleged attacks on Iran and reacted strongly to reports surrounding his assassination. The timing of the unrest is particularly sensitive, coinciding with ongoing cross-border fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan, which began last week following Afghan attacks in retaliation for Pakistani airstrikes.

Gilgit-Baltistan, a disputed territory administered by Pakistan but claimed by India, is home to a significant Shiite population. The region has experienced sectarian violence in the past, making it particularly vulnerable to unrest fueled by regional tensions. The area’s strategic importance, as a key transit route for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

What Happens Next?

The immediate priority for Pakistani authorities is to restore order and prevent further violence. The deployment of troops and the imposition of the curfew are intended to achieve this. Though, the underlying grievances that fueled the protests remain unaddressed.

The long-term implications of the unrest are uncertain. The situation could further destabilize the region, particularly if tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Iran continue to escalate. Pakistan’s government will likely face pressure to address the concerns of the Shiite community and to improve security measures around foreign diplomatic missions.

The economic impact is already being felt, with the Pakistan Stock Exchange experiencing a significant downturn on Monday. Continued instability could deter foreign investment and further weaken the Pakistani economy.

Confirmed vs. Unclear Details

Here’s a breakdown of what is confirmed and what remains unclear as of Monday, March 2, 2026:

Confirmed:

At least 11 people have died in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, during protests.
A three-day curfew has been imposed in Gilgit and Skardu.
The Pakistan Army has been requested to deploy in Gilgit and Skardu.
UN offices in Gilgit and Skardu were attacked and damaged.
The U.S. Consulate in Karachi was stormed by protesters.
U.S. Visa appointments and American Citizen Services in Pakistan have been suspended.

Unclear:

The precise circumstances surrounding the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remain contested.
The full extent of the damage to infrastructure in Gilgit-Baltistan is still being assessed.
The identities of the protesters involved in the violence have not been fully established.
The long-term political and economic consequences of the unrest are uncertain.

Background: UNMOGIP and the Kashmir Dispute

The United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) was established in 1949 to monitor the ceasefire line in the disputed region of Kashmir. The group’s mandate has evolved over time, but it continues to play a role in observing and reporting on violations of the ceasefire agreement. More information about UNMOGIP can be found on the UN website.

The Kashmir dispute remains a major source of tension between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim the region in its entirety, and have fought several wars over it. The presence of UNMOGIP is a reminder of the ongoing conflict and the need for a peaceful resolution.

Reader FAQ

Q: Why are people protesting in Pakistan? A: Protests erupted in Pakistan following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with demonstrators expressing anger over what they believe were U.S.-Israeli strikes responsible for his death.

Q: What is the situation in Gilgit-Baltistan? A: Gilgit-Baltistan is under a three-day curfew with troops deployed after violent protests led to at least 11 deaths and damage to UN offices and government buildings.

Q: Is it safe for Americans in Pakistan? A: The U.S. Embassy has suspended visa appointments and American Citizen Services due to security concerns. Travelers should exercise extreme caution.

Q: What is UNMOGIP? A: UNMOGIP is a United Nations military observer group established to monitor the ceasefire line in the disputed region of Kashmir.

Q: What is the current status of the protests? A: Although the situation appears to be under control due to the curfew and troop deployment, the underlying tensions remain, and the long-term implications are still unfolding.