Demonstrations over the US-Israel bombing campaign in Iran turned violent in Pakistan and Iraq on Sunday (1 March), following confirmation of the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Pakistani security forces clashed with protesters near the US consulate in Karachi and in other cities, with fatalities and dozens injured. In Baghdad, police used tear gas to disperse crowds near the Green Zone.
Meanwhile, diaspora communities have held contrasting gatherings, with public celebrations and solidarity rallies reported in Europe, Australia, Los Angeles, New Yorkand other Western cities.
Key developments:
• Violent clashes and fatalities in Pakistan and Iraq
• Mass mourning protests in Iran and Kashmir
• Peaceful diaspora gatherings and celebrations elsewhere
Iran has begun a 40-day national mourning period after confirming the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, which other senior Iranian officials have condemned as “a great crime” and vowed retaliation.
US President Donald Trump reiterated that “Khamenei, one of the most evil people in History, is dead,” and warned further Iranian retaliation would be met with “force that has never been seen before.”
In Tehran, constitutional mechanisms have now taken effect, with an interim leadership council assuming the duties of the Supreme Leader. The three-member body comprises President Masoud Pezeshkian, Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, and senior cleric Ayatollah Alireza Arafi. Under Articles 107–111 of Iran’s constitution, the council will exercise the Supreme Leader’s authority temporarily while the Assembly of Experts convenes to appoint a permanent successor.
Trump reportedly confirmed in a phone interview with The Atlantic that Iran’s new leadership has expressed a willingness to engage in talks with Washington after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
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