By Our Correspondent

Gilgit — At least 10 protesters were killed and more than 15 others injured in violent clashes in Gilgit-Baltistan on Sunday, as demonstrations erupted over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint U.S.-Israeli strikes.The protests, concentrated in Gilgit and Skardu, turned deadly when large crowds gathered to condemn the assassination, which occurred amid escalating military operations against Iran. Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement agencies, leading to the reported deaths—six in Gilgit and four in Skardu—according to official sources. Communication networks in the area, including cellular and data services, faced severe disruptions, complicating independent verification of the events.Protesters set fire to a United Nations office building, a police office and an IT hub in Skardu and damaged other facilities, reflecting widespread anger over the strikes that claimed Khamenei’s life, along with family members and senior officials.Local authorities responded by ordering the closure of schools, colleges, and other educational institutions in Gilgit and Skardu on Monday due to the deteriorating law and order situation, Home Secretary Mushtaq Ahmed announced. The Chief Court in the region will also remain closed on Monday.Spokesperson to the Chief Minister Shabbir Mir stated that the situation is now under control, with security forces beefed up across the area. The government is engaging with top clerics to help calm the protesters and prevent further escalation.In a video message, Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (r) Yar Muhammad appealed for calm and restraint. He urged citizens to exercise their democratic right to protest peacefully while refraining from damaging public or private property.The unrest in Gilgit-Baltistan is part of broader protests across Pakistan triggered by Khamenei’s death, including violent incidents near U.S. consulates in cities like Karachi.