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Nationwide Protests Erupt in India and Pakistan After Khamenei’s Killing

3/3/2026

35 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Protests erupted across India after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli airstrike.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir restricted movement and internet access to prevent unrest, and the Shia community declared three days of mourning.
Protests also occurred in Pakistan where at least 20 people died, and the Pakistani government condemned the attacks while Iranian officials vowed retaliation.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 overthrew Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, establishing the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini, who became Supreme Leader. This shift significantly influenced Shia communities across the Middle East. The recent killing of Khamenei has reignited tensions, prompting protests that echo the revolutionary fervor, highlighting the ongoing volatility in the region and its implications for international relations.

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Story summary

Protests erupted across India after the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli airstrike.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir restricted movement and internet access to prevent unrest, and the Shia community declared three days of mourning.
Protests also occurred in Pakistan where at least 20 people died, and the Pakistani government condemned the attacks while Iranian officials vowed retaliation.

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