Tensions escalated in Karachi on Sunday evening as police fired tear gas and protesters hurled stones during a rally condemning Israel’s killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and its ongoing bombardment of Lebanon.
Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across Pakistan following Hezbollah’s announcement on Saturday that its long-time chief had been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon, according to AFP.
In Karachi, the protest saw a significant turnout, including women and children, with participants chanting slogans against Israel and the United States, a key ally of Israel.
The Karachi Police stated that the rally was organized by the religiopolitical party Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM). “The rally was set to begin at the PIDC intersection, then proceed towards Mai Kolachi Road via the ICI Bridge, concluding near the US Consulate,” according to their statement.
The situation escalated when a faction of protesters, who had begun their march from the Old Numaish roundabout and proceeded along MA Jinnah Road, were stopped by police as they approached the US Consulate after descending from the Native Jetty Bridge. Police contingents were deployed to block their advance, leading to clashes.