By Tanveer Ahmed
GILGIT/ SKARDU: At least 11 people were killed and more than 70 injured in violent protests across Gilgit-Baltistan following reports of the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in alleged attacks by Israel and the United States.
Authorities imposed an indefinite curfew in Skardu and deployed the army after demonstrators set fire to government and international aid offices. Thousands blocked the main highway, storming and torching buildings including the regional office of the United Nations Development Programme, the senior superintendent of police office, a technology park, and an army public school. The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme compound was also attacked, with more than two dozen vehicles burned.
In Gilgit, protesters marched on a United Nations office in Jutial, defying police tear gas, and set the building ablaze. Looting was reported, and fresh clashes between demonstrators and security forces left dozens injured. Hospital officials said seven of the wounded later died, while 27 remain under treatment, including two in critical condition. Authorities reported 45 injuries in Skardu, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government tightened security across the region, consulted religious leaders to calm tensions, and suspended mobile phone services indefinitely. Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (retd) Yar Muhammad Nasir condemned the attacks on Iran and urged residents to express their anger through lawful means. All public and private educational institutions were ordered closed on Monday.
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