Protests erupted in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir after Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Israel-US joint strikes. Demonstrations took place in Srinagar, Sonawari, and Bandipora, where members of the Shia community gathered to express their grief and solidarity with Iran.

Shia Community Mourns in Jammu and Kashmir

Shia protesters carried portraits of the Iranian leader, with many expressing their support for the deceased cleric. A female protester in Baramulla said, ‘Shias are not scared of martyrdom. We are with Rehbar Khamenei and out on streets in solidarity with them.’

The Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association released a statement mourning the death of Khamenei, describing the event as a ‘martyrdom of the family members of Imam Khamenei.’

‘Our prayers are with the Leader and the people of Iran,’ the association said in its official statement, emphasizing the deep emotional impact on the Shia community in the region.

Political Leaders Condemn Israeli Strikes

Earlier on Saturday, political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir strongly condemned Israel’s strikes on Iran, warning of potential regional consequences. Former Chief Minister and PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti expressed her solidarity with Iran, saying her prayers were with ‘Iran and its resilient people as they face yet another act of aggression by Israel.’

Mufti described Iran as ‘a defining voice of the Muslim world,’ noting that the country draws its strength from ‘unshakable faith and conviction.’

‘May Allah’s protection surround Iran, grant courage and patience to its people, and guide its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, with wisdom and strength,’ she said in a statement.

Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also condemned the attack, calling it a ‘dangerous escalation in an already volatile region.’

‘Strongly condemn the attack on Iran by Israel. Lack of international accountability for Israel’s aggression in the region, especially with regard to Palestinians, has emboldened it to act with impunity in such a wilful manner,’ Mirwaiz said in a statement.

Iranian Government Announces 40 Days of Mourning

Iran’s state television confirmed that the Supreme Leader was killed in recent strikes, hours after US President Donald Trump announced the killing of the 86-year-old cleric, whom he described as ‘one of the most evil people in History.’

The daylight offensive, coordinated with Israeli forces led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, targeted the political heart of Tehran in a dramatic escalation of regional tensions.

According to Israel’s Channel 12, a photograph of Khamenei’s body was shown to US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Iranian National Security Council said the assassination would be the ‘launchpad for a great uprising against the tyrants.’

Iran’s government has announced 40 days of mourning following the death of Khamenei, a period that will likely involve widespread public demonstrations and religious observances across the country.

The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei marks a significant turning point in the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, with regional leaders and communities reacting with concern and solidarity. The implications of this event will be closely watched as the situation continues to unfold.