Srinagar, March 1 (NationPress) A significant number of individuals throughout the Kashmir Valley, particularly in Srinagar, engaged in peaceful demonstrations in response to the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei due to a US-Israeli airstrike. Local political and religious figures condemned the act and called for tranquility in Jammu and Kashmir.

Protesters took to the streets, chanting slogans against the United States and Israel, while security forces maintained vigilance to prevent any disorder from arising.

The protests emerged spontaneously in various locations within Srinagar, Budgam district, and other areas across the valley.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his concerns regarding the recent events in Iran, stating, “I’m deeply worried about the recent developments, including the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.”

He urged all communities to stay calm, uphold peace, and avoid actions that could incite unrest. “We must also ensure that those mourning in Jammu and Kashmir are permitted to grieve peacefully. The police and administration should exercise maximum restraint and avoid using force or imposing restrictions. The Government of Jammu & Kashmir is in close communication with the Ministry of External Affairs to guarantee the safety and well-being of J&K residents, including students currently in Iran,” he added.

Former Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) president, Farooq Abdullah, along with other party leaders, condemned the US-Israeli attack on Iran.

The NC headquarters shared on its official X account, “Party President Dr. Farooq Abdullah, along with Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq and Senior Leader Agha Syed Mehmood Al-Moosavi, expressed deep sorrow over the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Dr. Abdullah strongly criticized the act, labeling it a tragic and destabilizing event with serious implications for peace in the region. He emphasized the need for wisdom and adherence to justice and international law.”

“Dr. Abdullah appealed for calm and urged the administration to manage the situation with sensitivity, ensuring that those wishing to mourn can do so respectfully, without fear or undue restrictions, while maintaining public order,” the post further stated.

Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Mehbooba Mufti, commented, “This day marks a profoundly tragic and shameful chapter in history, with Israel and the USA celebrating the killing of Iran’s respected leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The support from some Muslim countries, prioritizing convenience over conscience, is even more disgraceful. History will remember who stood for justice and who supported the oppressors. My prayers are with the people of Iran. May Allah grant them strength and victory over oppression.”

Senior religious leader and chief cleric of Kashmir, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, stated, “I am profoundly saddened and outraged by the brutal killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, by the US and Israel, an act that has shaken the Muslim world. The people of Jammu and Kashmir collectively denounce this brutality and the ongoing aggression against Iran, including the tragic loss of innocent girl students in Minab. In this moment of immense sorrow, our hearts resonate with the resilient people of Iran. May Allah grant strength to the oppressed, elevate the martyrs, and deliver swift justice to those accountable for this.”

He emphasized this as a moment for the Ummah to transcend divisions and unite in protest and solidarity against this killing and the ongoing regional aggression.

“The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) has called for a complete strike tomorrow. We urge everyone to observe it with unity, dignity, and total peacefulness,” he added.

No incidents of unrest have been reported in the Valley as of now.