PAKISTAN — At least nine people were killed and more than two dozen injured after violent clashes erupted outside the U.S. Consulate in Karachi, as protests spiraled into chaos.

Hundreds of demonstrators stormed the diplomatic compound, attempting to breach security barriers as tensions quickly escalated. Video from the scene shows large crowds clashing with security forces as gunfire and tear gas were reportedly used to disperse protesters.

The unrest followed widespread reports that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli strike, triggering outrage among sections of the population.

Witnesses said many of those involved in the protest identified as Shiite Muslims and were chanting anti-American and anti-Israel slogans while pushing toward the consulate perimeter.

Pakistani security forces, including police and paramilitary units, were deployed in large numbers as the situation intensified. Officials said between 25 and 30 people were injured during the clashes.

Authorities have since tightened security around U.S. diplomatic sites across the country amid concerns the violence could spread.

The incident comes as tensions continue to rise in the region following ongoing U.S. and Israeli military operations targeting Iranian infrastructure.