In response to the ongoing unrest after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in strikes, all educational institutions including schools and colleges in GB have been closed for Monday, as announced by authorities.
The “martyrdom” of Khamenei ignited demonstrations that swiftly transitioned from mere protest to significant unrest.
Streets in Gilgit and Skardu became crowded with individuals, some voicing their dissent while others engaged in clashes, prompting authorities to act urgently to restore order.
Protests erupt in GB and Skardu
Violent protests rapidly escalated in various districts, with demonstrators allegedly vandalising property and igniting both government and private structures.
Authorities confirmed that tensions surged dramatically in both Gilgit and Skardu, where furious crowds resorted to violence.
Security forces were deployed in substantial numbers as the government attempted to regain control.
The government asserts that it is vigilantly monitoring the situation and collaborating with religious leaders to alleviate tensions.
Officials cautioned that anyone taking advantage of the protests to commit acts of vandalism or violence will face severe legal repercussions.
Reports of destruction are prevalent, with numerous public and private offices set on fire during the chaos.
The violence has reportedly resulted in fatalities.
Unofficial sources indicate that at least 10 individuals have lost their lives, and over a dozen others have sustained injuries, with six deaths reported in Gilgit and four in Skardu.
Trump confirms Khamenei killed in strikes
Earlier, it was reported by Iranian state media that the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was martyred in strikes carried out by the United States (US).
The Iranian state media indicated that Khamenei “was fulfilling his assigned responsibilities and was at his workplace (his office)”.
The state media further noted, “This cowardly attack took place in the early hours of Saturday morning”.
Before this incident, the President of the US, Donald Trump, had stated that Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei had been killed in the strikes.
Read more: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei martyred in US strike: Iranian state media report
