Iran strikes spark worldwide protests; 23 dead in Pakistan

In Pakistan and Iraq, anti-American demonstrations turned violent following the US-Israeli bombing campaign in Iran, resulting in at least 23 deaths, including several in Karachi where security guards opened fire on protesters. In Skardu, residents set a UN office ablaze as thousands rallied outside.

Meanwhile, in Paris, Iranians celebrated their Supreme Leader’s death with joyous crowds waving pre-revolutionary Iranian flags and offering red roses and champagne. Demonstrations erupted in other parts of Pakistan, with black-clad protesters chanting “Down with America!” and anti-Israel slogans; some clashes occurred but no fatalities were reported.

In the capital Islamabad, thousands marched toward the diplomatic zone despite police barricades being erected to prevent them from entering. Two protesters died while nearly ten were injured during confrontations with law enforcement who used tear gas and live ammunition.

In contrast, in Western countries and regions where significant Iranian diaspora exists, celebrations took place. In Lisbon, Iranians gathered outside their embassies celebrating the passing of Ayatollah Khamenei. “We had a party last night,” said 57-year-old Maximilien Jazani, an exiled Iranian. They expressed desire to vote and choose their preferred form of government.

Across Iran’s eastern and western neighbors, Pakistanis and Iraqis carried out protests against US-Israeli actions. In the northern city of Skardu, residents torched a UN office in retaliation for previous attacks on their community by foreign forces. Elsewhere, protesters chanted “Death to America!” in Lahore and other parts of Pakistan.

The unrest highlights how Iran’s large Shi’ite populations—second only to those in Iraq and Pakistan—are at the epicenter of this conflict, with violence erupting regardless of geographical location where Iranians are concentrated. As news reports continue to unfold, it is evident that reactions remain polarized across continents due to a deeply entrenched dispute over regional geopolitics.