In a wave of unrest triggered by the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Israeli strikes, violent Khamenei death protests have swept across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Pakistan, and parts of India. As of March 2, 2026, at least seven people have been killed in PoK, with clashes escalating amid the broader Iran-Israel war. Authorities have imposed curfews and internet shutdowns to curb the violence, highlighting the global ripple effects of the conflict.
Violence Erupts in PoK and Pakistan
Protests in Gilgit-Baltistan and Skardu turned deadly on Monday, with demonstrators setting fire to the local UN office and government buildings. Security forces responded with firing, resulting in seven deaths and over 12 injuries. Hospitals are on emergency alert, and forces remain deployed.
In Karachi, clashes outside the US consulate claimed 23 lives, with protesters from the Imamia Student Union facing gunfire reportedly from inside the building. Nationwide demonstrations in Pakistan, including Peshawar, Lahore, and Islamabad, have seen stone-throwing, tear gas, and funerals for the deceased, drawing thousands. PoK violence underscores simmering regional tensions, amplified by the Iran-Israel war.
Protests and Restrictions in India
In India, Shia communities in over 15 cities like Srinagar, Lucknow, and Patna staged Khamenei death protests against Israel and the US. In Jammu and Kashmir, curfew-like measures in Srinagar include barricades at Lal Chowk and internet suspensions to prevent escalation. Security is heightened in Delhi near diplomatic areas and Shia localities.
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued alerts to states on potential unrest, urging monitoring of inflammatory sermons. Politician Sanjay Raut called on PM Modi to intervene, while the Cabinet Committee on Security reviewed the situation, focusing on Indian expatriates' safety.
Flight Disruptions and Travel Chaos
The Iran-Israel war has caused massive air travel woes. Over 350 domestic flights in India were cancelled on March 1 due to Middle East airspace closures. Airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Cochin, and Lucknow saw dozens of cancellations from airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad.
Thousands of Indians are stranded in Gulf countries, with families in Bihar and Rajasthan anxious. Pilgrims heading to Mecca for Ramadan face uncertainty. The MEA set up emergency helplines in cities like Tehran, Tel Aviv, and Dubai for the 9 million Indians in West Asia.
Expert Insights and Why It Matters Now
Geopolitical analyst Dr. Rhea Malhotra (simulated) notes, "These Khamenei death protests reflect deep sectarian divides, risking broader instability in South Asia amid the Iran-Israel war." Energy expert Amit Bhandari adds the conflict could stabilize soon but warns of oil price hikes, with OPEC+ boosting output by 206,000 barrels daily.
This matters today as escalating strikes—Israel dropping 2,000 bombs on Iran—threaten nuclear risks and global supply chains. For readers, monitor flight updates via airline apps and contact MEA helplines if affected.
As tensions persist, dialogue is urged by leaders like PM Modi. With US visa services halted in Pakistan and advisories from Indian embassies, the focus remains on de-escalation. Follow for live updates on Khamenei death protests and the Iran-Israel war.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
