Pakistan Erupts in Protests Over Israel’s Killing of Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah

Thousands of Pakistanis took to the streets on Sunday to condemn Israel’s killing of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah and its ongoing bombing campaign in Lebanon. The protests turned violent in Karachi, where police fired tear gas and protesters pelted stones.

Nationwide Protests

Protests were held across Pakistan, with around 4,000 people gathering in Islamabad alone. The religiopolitical party, Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM), organized the rally in Karachi, which began peacefully but turned violent when protesters attempted to approach the US Consulate.

Clashes in Karachi

Several officers, including a station house officer, were injured after protesters pelted stones at the police. Journalists covering the incident were also beaten and injured, and private news channels’ DSNG vans were damaged.

Government Response

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar took notice of the incident and sought details from DIG South. The minister ordered the deployment of more police to stop the rioting and stone-pelting.

Condemnation of Israel

Pakistan strongly condemned Israel’s “adventurism” in the Middle East, terming the killing of Nasrallah a “reckless act”. The Foreign Office stated that Israel’s unbridled attacks on civilian populations and disregard of international law have reached alarming levels.

Protest Demands

MWM leader Syed Baqir Zaidi demanded that the US Embassy be abolished from Pakistan and American ambassadors be deported. Protesters also accused the government of standing with America and Israel instead of the victims of Gaza.

Ongoing Tensions

Protests continued in Islamabad despite the Punjab government imposing Section 144, prohibiting assemblies of four or more people. The situation remains tense, with Pakistanis calling for action against Israel’s aggression.

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