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Thousands of Shia Muslims took to the streets in Indian-administered Kashmir on Sunday to protest the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following strikes by the United States and Israel.
Large crowds gathered in Srinagar, the region’s main city, waving flags and chanting slogans against the US and Israel during what observers described as a largely peaceful but emotionally charged demonstration. Some demonstrators expressed grief over Khamenei’s death, describing it as a significant loss, while also voicing opposition to US policies.
“This day we are all very heavy-hearted. We are mourning our beloved leader who was martyred,” Syed Towfeeq, 40, told AFP.
Others called for unity among Muslim nations in response to the development. Similar demonstrations were reported in other parts of Kashmir and across India where there are sizeable Shia Muslim communities.
Reacting to the situation, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the developments in Iran and urged residents to remain calm. He also called for restraint, emphasising the need to allow mourners grieve peacefully without triggering unrest.
Iranian state media had earlier reported Khamenei’s death, airing archival footage alongside mourning visuals. Reports also indicated that members of his family, including his daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law, were among those killed.
