Massive Protests Erupt Across Kashmir Over Martyrdom of Imam Syed Ali Khamenei in Iran-US-Israel Conflict; Syed Irfan Hashmi
Srinagar, March 5, 2026 – Thousands of people poured onto the streets throughout Kashmir today in a wave of massive protests, mourning the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Imam Syed Ali Khamenei, killed in a joint US-Israel military strike amid escalating war tensions.
From Srinagar’s iconic Lal Chowk to towns in North Kashmir like Magam, South Kashmir including Devsar and Budgam, and even Kargil in Ladakh, demonstrators gathered in unprecedented numbers, carrying portraits of Imam Khamenei and chanting slogans such as “Marg bar Amrika, Marg bar Israel” (Death to America, Death to Israel). The protests, largely peaceful but intense, expressed solidarity with Iran and Palestine, with protesters beating their chests in grief and raising black flags, marking the largest mobilization in the region since 2019.
Kashmir called for a valley-wide shutdown, condemning the “brutal assassination” as a threat to global peace, while socio-political leaders urged peaceful demonstrations in localities to maintain public order. Syed Irfan Hashmi, socio-political activist, voiced deep anguish, highlighting Iran’s moral stand against imperialism despite losses. Authorities responded by shutting schools, imposing restrictions, and throttling internet speeds to manage the situation.
