The rare use of force at diplomatic posts follows deadly break-ins amid protests over Khamenei’s killing
Police and paramilitary vehicles stand outside the US Consulate General, a day after a protest following news of US and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in Karachi, Pakistan, March 2, 2026. REUTERS
KARACHI:
US Marines opened fire on protesters during the storming of Karachi’s consulate over the weekend, two US officials said Monday – a rare use of force at a diplomatic post that could sharply escalate tensions in the country amid widespread protests over the killing of Iran’s leader.
Ten people were killed on Sunday when protesters breached the building’s outer wall after Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in attacks on Iran.
Citing initial information, the two US officials said it was unclear whether shots fired by Marines hit or killed anyone. They also did not know if shots were fired by others protecting the mission, including private security guards and local police.
Read: At least 10 killed in clashes in Karachi during march on US consulate after Khamenei attack
This would mark the first confirmation by US officials that Marines were involved in firing on protesters.
A provincial government spokesman, Sukhdev Assardas Hemnani, said “security personnel” had opened fire without specifying their affiliation.
Day-to-day security operations at US diplomatic missions are often carried out by private contractors and local forces, and the Marines’ involvement in the incident underscores how seriously the consulate viewed the threat.
Pakistan is home to the world’s second largest Shia community after Iran. On Monday, Pakistan banned large gatherings nationwide after protests over the attacks on Iran spread, with 26 people reported dead across the country.
Read more: The Sindh government opens investigation into the incident with the US consulate
Demonstrators on Sunday chanted “Death to America! Death to Israel!” outside the consulate where Reuters reporters heard gunshots and saw tear gas fired in the surrounding streets.
A video on social media appeared to show at least one protester firing a weapon at the consulate and bloodied protesters fleeing as gunfire rang out.
This was told by a police official in Karachi Reuters that the shots were fired from inside the consulate premises.
The U.S. Marines referred questions to the U.S. military, which in turn referred questions to the State Department. The State Department did not respond to a request for comment.
