CHICAGO (WGN) -- Hundreds gathered in the Loop on Saturday to voice their concerns after a major attack on Iran by Israel and the United States.
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the attack, along with more than 200 others. Over 700 people were injured in the airstrikes, according to comments on Iranian state TV.
President Donald Trump announced Khamenei's death, saying it gave Iranians their "greatest chance" to "take back" their country.
"None of what we're doing is what needs to be done. It's terrible. I woke up with a broken heart because of this," demonstrator Chris Lambert said.
Protesters gathered at Federal Plaza for a march and rally in response to the military action in the Middle East.
"I think it's important to show there's a public outrage against war. I think that we do not want our tax dollars going to bomb other countries and intervening in other countries," said Husam Marajada, co-chair of U.S. Palestinian Community Network.
The "emergency protest" was organized by more than two dozen local groups, united in their frustration. Those in attendance condemned the strikes unfolding thousands of miles away and called for an immediate end to the violence.
"This morning, Iranians woke up to another bombing campaign by the U.S. and Israel," said Nazek Sankari, co-chair of U.S. Palestinian Community Network.
As the conflict intensifies, many in the crowd fear an escalating war.
The attack marks a dramatic new chapter in U.S. involvement in Iran, carrying the potential for retaliation and a wider regional conflict.
For now, demonstrators say they're hoping for peace in the region and for the U.S. Constitution to guide decisions moving forward.
"It's just this: I care about the constitution, and I love our country. This is what we're built on and if we aren't following it, we're in trouble," demonstrator Cathy Kuna said.
Organizers say Saturday's rally is only the beginning. Another demonstration is planned for downtown Monday evening.
Organizations including the Jewish Federation of Chicago are voicing support for Israelis. The Jewish United Fund issued the following statement to WGN:
"Our Chicago Jewish community joins fellow Americans and Jews around the world in praying for the safety of the United States armed forces and the Israeli defense forces, as well as for the well-being of civilians in Israel, in the six Arab countries Iran is attacking, and in Iran itself.
For nearly 50 years, Iran's extremist regime has brutally repressed its own people while exporting terror across the globe, both directly and through its proxy forces, including Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Hamas.
We are closely monitoring developments and remain in regular communication with our colleagues and partners in Israel as we envision a future of greater stability and peace for the region."