J&K Protests Mount Following Khamenei’s Reported Death; Mehbooba, Mirwaiz Condemn Israeli Strikes

West Asia Conflict: Protests Erupt in J&K Over Khamenei’s Death; Mehbooba, Mirwaiz Condemn Israeli Strikes

Protests erupted across several parts of Jammu and Kashmir following reports from Iranian state media confirming the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint strikes by Israel and the United States.

Demonstrations were reported in Srinagar, Sonawari, and Bandipora, with members of the Shia community carrying pictures of Khamenei and chanting slogans in solidarity.

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 also issued a statement mourning his death, adding, “Our prayers are with the Leader and the people of Iran.”

Political Leaders Denounce Strikes

Former Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti condemned the attacks, expressing solidarity with the Iranian people. “My prayers are with Iran and its resilient people as they face yet another act of aggression by Israel,” she said.

Mufti described Iran as “a defining voice of the Muslim world” and said the country draws strength from “unshakable faith and conviction.” She added, “No missile or menace can extinguish its sovereignty or break its spirit. May Allah’s protection surround Iran, grant courage and patience to its people, and guide its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, with wisdom and strength.”

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir’s chief cleric, also condemned the strikes, calling them a “dangerous escalation in an already volatile region.” He said, “Lack of international accountability for Israel’s aggression in the region has emboldened it to act with impunity in such a wilful manner.”

Khamenei Confirmed Killed in Airstrikes

Iranian state television confirmed that the 86-year-old Supreme Leader was killed in the coordinated US‑Israel strikes targeting Tehran’s political heart. Hours earlier, Donald Trump had announced Khamenei’s death, describing him as “one of the most evil people in history.”

Following the attacks, the Iranian government announced a 40-day period of mourning. According to reports from Israel Channel 12, a photograph of Khamenei’s body was reportedly shown to both the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Trump.

The Iranian National Security Council stated that Khamenei’s death would serve as a “launchpad for a great uprising against the tyrants,” signalling potential escalation in the region.