Khamenei’s Death Sparks Protests in J&K; Mehbooba Mufti and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Criticise Israel

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

Protests broke out in multiple parts of Jammu and Kashmir after Iranian state media confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US‑Israel strikes. Demonstrations were reported in Srinagar, Sonawari, and Bandipora, with Shia community members carrying pictures of Khamenei in solidarity.

A 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 issued a statement mourning Khamenei, adding, “Our prayers are with the Leader and the people of Iran.”

Political Leaders Speak Out

Former Chief Minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti condemned the strikes, expressing solidarity with Iran’s people. “My prayers are with Iran and its resilient people as they face yet another act of aggression by Israel,” she said, describing the country as “a defining voice of the Muslim world” and emphasizing its unshakable faith.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also denounced the strikes, calling them a “dangerous escalation” and criticising what he described as Israel’s unchecked aggression in the region.

Khamenei Confirmed Killed

Iran’s state television confirmed that 86-year-old Khamenei was killed in the strikes targeting Tehran’s political center. Earlier, Donald Trump had announced the death, calling Khamenei “one of the most evil people in history.”

The Iranian government declared a 40-day mourning period. Reports from Israel Channel 12 indicated a photograph of Khamenei’s body was shown to Benjamin Netanyahu and Trump. The Iranian National Security Council warned that Khamenei’s death could spark a “great uprising against the tyrants,” signalling potential further escalation in the region.