The killings provoked widespread anger from both sides of the community.

The killings provoked a huge international outcry.

The killing provoked widespread protests against the government and allegations were hurled at the President for complicity in the assassination.

The killings provoked justifiable, widespread outrage over lax laws and meager enforcement.

Proponents argued that both the killing and the bloodbath it provoked constituted a propaganda victory.

The killing has provoked sadness in an institution that its officials described as a haven for troubled youths.

"Certainly the killing will provoke some retaliation from the Shia community," he said.

But there were also unconfirmed reports that the killings had provoked further clashes.

There was also concern that the recurrent civilian killings could provoke revenge attacks in Israel after a nearly monthlong lull.