Karachi in the news: deadly mall fire soars to 67 dead. Pakistan’s largest city (pop >20M) and Sindh capital, a gritty, dense megapolis.
Following the US-Israeli strike that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on March 1, 2026, violent protests erupted across Pakistan, especially in Karachi, Skardu, and Islamabad. At least 10 people died in Karachi alone as protesters clashed with security forces near US diplomatic missions. Demonstrations also spread to Iraq, with protests outside the US embassy in Baghdad.
Protests in Pakistan over Kashmir have turned violent, resulting in at least 24 deaths and injuries. Demonstrators attacked UN offices, police stations, and US diplomatic missions amid rising regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Curfews are in place, and security has been heightened nationwide.
Following Iran's killing of Supreme Leader Khamenei, protests across Pakistan have turned violent, with clashes resulting in dozens of deaths. Demonstrators targeted US and UN facilities, amid rising tensions linked to Iran and regional conflicts. Security has been heightened nationwide.
Protests erupted at the Iranian and Pakistani consulates, resulting in at least 10 deaths. The incidents followed strikes on Iran that killed Iran's Supreme Leader. U.S. Marines fired on demonstrators during the Karachi protest, with unclear casualties. The events highlight escalating tensions in the region.
On March 8, 2026, countries worldwide marked International Women's Day, emphasizing progress in gender equality and ongoing challenges. Events ranged from protests to celebrations, with themes focused on rights, justice, and action for women and girls. The day also spotlighted barriers to equality and calls for policy change.
Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz persists amid ongoing conflict, but recent reports indicate some non-Iranian ships, including Pakistan's Karachi, have passed with AIS signals on, suggesting limited diplomatic negotiations. The situation remains tense as Iran continues to threaten closure, impacting global oil supplies.
Since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, numerous flights have been diverted or turned back mid-flight, including dozens of 'flights to nowhere.' Dubai International Airport experienced a drone strike that caused temporary closures and diversions, impacting thousands of travelers worldwide. Flights are gradually resuming amid ongoing security concerns.
Iran is controlling passage through the Strait of Hormuz via a system of selective approvals amid ongoing regional conflict. Shipping has plummeted over 90%, impacting global energy markets. Some vessels are permitted through, suggesting Iran is using a permission-based approach to exert pressure without a full blockade.
Unseasonal heavy rain caused fatalities and damage in Karachi, Pakistan, while a persistent US heatwave broke records across several states, driven by atmospheric anomalies. Both events highlight unusual weather patterns this week, with significant impacts on local communities and agriculture.
The Pakistan Super League's opening matches are being played without spectators due to rising fuel prices and regional conflict. The league has reduced venues to Lahore and Karachi, canceled the opening ceremony, and issued refunds amid government restrictions on travel and gatherings.
Sri Lanka has recovered 87 bodies and hospitalized 32 after a US submarine sank Iran's IRIS Dena on March 4. A second Iranian vessel, IRIS Booshehr, has been brought to a Sri Lankan port following engine trouble. The government has declined requests from the US and Iran to land or repatriate ships, emphasizing neutrality amid ongoing conflicts.