Demonstrations broke out outside the United States Consulate after reports circulated about the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a strike reportedly carried out by the US and Israel.
A large number of protesters gathered near the consulate chanting slogans and expressing anger over the reported development. As tensions escalated police used tear gas and fired warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.
Authorities temporarily shut down roads linking Sultanabad to Mai Kolachi while traffic coming from Jinnah Bridge was diverted through I.I. Chundrigar Road to ease congestion and maintain security in the area.
Officials have advised citizens to avoid the vicinity until the situation stabilizes as law enforcement agencies remain deployed to ensure public safety and restore order.
Rumors of US consulate fire in Karachi are false, authorities clarify
Authorities have dismissed circulating social media reports claiming that the United States Consulate in Karachi was set on fire calling them false and misleading.
Officials said that while a small group of protestors reached the outer periphery of the consulate causing minor disturbances such as burning a tyre, the situation was quickly contained. Consulate security has been significantly strengthened in response to the regional tensions and to prevent any escalation.
The smoke visible in some images and videos shared online was clarified to be either from tear gas shells deployed by law enforcement or from small controlled fires involving tyres and wooden sticks not a large-scale fire at the consulate.
Authorities have engaged the leadership of the protestors to ensure the maintenance of peace and order. Citizens are urged not to share unverified claims as misinformation can escalate tensions unnecessarily.
Security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely ensuring that the consulate and surrounding areas remain secure.
Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan has stated that he is currently present at the US Consulate Karachi and that the situation is under control. He confirmed that a small number of individuals who managed to barge inside have now been removed and dispersed.
Also read: Who was Ayatollah Ali Khamenei? The man who redefined Iran’s politics
