Two US officials confirmed on Monday that US Marines discharged their weapons during an incident where protesters attempted to storm the consulate in Karachi over the weekend. This marks a rare instance of force being used at a US diplomatic facility and could intensify existing tensions in Pakistan, which are already high due to widespread protests following the assassination of Iran’s top leader.

On Sunday, ten people were reportedly killed when protesters breached the outer wall of the consulate compound. The unrest followed the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in what was described as US-Israel strikes on Iran.

The officials stated that, based on initial reports, it remains unclear if any individuals were hit or killed by the rounds fired by the Marines. They also could not confirm if shots were fired by other security personnel present, including private contractors and local police.

This is the first official confirmation that Marines were involved in firing at the demonstrators. A spokesperson for the provincial government mentioned that “security” personnel opened fire but did not specify their affiliation.

The daily security of US diplomatic missions often involves private contractors and local law enforcement. However, the deployment of Marines suggests the consulate perceived the threat to be exceptionally serious.

Pakistan has imposed a nationwide ban on large gatherings following the spread of protests against the strikes on Iran, which have resulted in at least 26 reported deaths across the country. Demonstrators outside the Karachi consulate were heard chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans. Reports from the scene included sounds of gunfire and the deployment of tear gas in nearby streets.

A video circulating on social media appeared to show at least one protester firing a weapon towards the consulate, with injured individuals seen fleeing as shots rang out. A Karachi police official indicated that the gunfire originated from within the consulate premises.

Inquiries to the US Marines were redirected to the US military, which then referred questions to the State Department. The State Department has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Despite the national ban on public gatherings, calls for further protests in Lahore and Karachi are ongoing. The US embassy in Pakistan is located in the capital, Islamabad, with additional consulates in Peshawar and Lahore. Roads leading to the US consulate in Karachi have been cordoned off by a significant police presence, with similar security measures in place around US diplomatic buildings in Lahore and Islamabad.