Police Clash with Protesters in Karachi Over Hezbollah Chief’s Death

Violence erupted in Karachi on September 30, 2024, when Pakistani police clashed with demonstrators protesting the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The rally, organized by the Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM), aimed to express condemnation against Israel, which was responsible for Nasrallah’s assassination. What began as a peaceful demonstration soon escalated when protesters deviated from the agreed route and tried to approach the US Consulate.

Karachi police responded with tear gas and batons, dispersing the crowd that had gathered near the Native Jetty Bridge. Several protesters retaliated by throwing stones at the police, injuring officers. Containers placed as barriers were removed by protesters, including women and children, leading to further tension. The clash also saw reporters and photographers injured in the melee.

Protests were also held in other parts of Pakistan, underscoring the widespread anger over the killing. Demonstrators chanted anti-Israel and anti-US slogans, holding these nations responsible for escalating violence in West Asia. The Pakistani Foreign Office condemned the act as reckless, urging international intervention from the United Nations Security Council to prevent further regional destabilization.

These protests reflect growing frustrations over geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East, where public emotions remain deeply tied to events affecting the Muslim world. As protests continue, the situation raises concerns over law enforcement’s ability to maintain order amid widespread unrest.