Shia Muslims in Budgam Protest US-Israel Strikes on Iran, Express Solidarity with Tehran

IIOJK: Hundreds of Shia Muslims took to the streets in Budgam district on Saturday in a peaceful demonstration to voice strong support for Iran following a major joint military attack by the United States and Israel on Iranian targets.

The protesters marched through the area, carrying placards, banners, and portraits of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while raising slogans condemning what they described as “illegal” aggression by Washington and Tel Aviv. The rally highlighted solidarity with Iran amid escalating Middle East tensions, including recent strikes that reportedly targeted sites in Tehran and other cities.

Video footage from the scene, participants chanting in favor of Iran and its leadership. One demonstrator told reporters: “Today there was a protest because America and Israel jointly attacked Iran, an illegal attack. We protested here today in support of Iran, and we stand with Ali Khamenei. India should definitely condemn it because it is a democratic country.”

Iran has vowed retaliation, with explosions reported in parts of the country and air raid sirens sounding in Israel. The strikes mark a sharp escalation following months of heightened tensions, including earlier unrest in Iran and prior military exchanges.

The protests reflect local sentiments among some Shia communities in Jammu and Kashmir, who view the attacks as unjust foreign interference in Iran’s affairs.