Spontaneous protests erupted in Srinagar following the confirmation of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death in a US-Israeli bombing. Security measures have been heightened across the Kashmir Valley in anticipation of potential unrest among the Shia Muslim community. Protesters in various parts of Srinagar took to the streets, chanting anti-Israel and anti-US slogans, with traffic being redirected to maintain order.
In Saida Kadal and other areas, demonstrators marched peacefully, mourning the loss of the Iranian leader with black flags. The Shia community in Kashmir shares a strong religious bond with Iran, where many of its religious leaders have received education. Similar protests have been reported in Budgam district and other Shia-populated regions, with Sunni Muslims also showing solidarity.
Authorities have deployed police and CRPF forces in Srinagar’s Zadibal area and other locations in preparation for potential protests related to the Iran situation. The response from Kashmir’s religious leaders, including figures like Imran Raza Ansari, is awaited. Notably, Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani, a Persian Sufi saint who influenced Kashmir’s culture significantly, remains a revered figure in the region.
