ISLAMABAD – Tensions are escalating across Pakistan as protests erupt against recent US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, prompting the American Embassy in Islamabad to issue an urgent security advisory for US citizens. Demonstrations have flared up outside US diplomatic missions in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, with authorities monitoring the volatile situation closely.
In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, the US Embassy highlighted ongoing protests at the Karachi and Lahore consulates and anticipated gatherings near the Islamabad embassy and Peshawar consulate. ‘US citizens in Pakistan should stay vigilant, monitor local news, practice good personal security measures, remain aware of surroundings, avoid crowds, and ensure STEP enrollment is up to date,’ the advisory urged.
Tragedy struck in Karachi on Sunday when clashes between protesters and law enforcement near the US Consulate on Mai Kolachi Road resulted in nine deaths and 34 injuries, according to reports from Pakistan’s Dawn newspaper. Dr. Mohammad Sabir Memon, executive director of SMBB Institute of Trauma at Civil Hospital Karachi, confirmed the casualties from the violent confrontations.
Police Surgeon Dr. Sumaiya Syed corroborated the death toll, noting that seven injured individuals were admitted to Aga Khan University Hospital and Fatimid Foundation, while others received treatment at Civil Hospital’s trauma center. Two injured police officers were rushed to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC).
The unrest has spread to Pakistan-administered Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly Skardu district, following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in the US-Israeli strikes. Protesters torched offices of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) in Skardu and Gilgit, along with a school, a police superintendent’s office, and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) facility.
In response, authorities imposed a curfew in Skardu and invoked Section 245 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to deploy Pakistan Army troops. While no casualties were reported from these incidents, security has been significantly beefed up across the region to prevent further escalation.
As the Middle East conflict reverberates through South Asia, American diplomats are bracing for more demonstrations, advising citizens to prioritize safety amid the charged atmosphere.