– February 22, 2026 – In a bold resurgence of dissent, students across several Iranian universities launched significant anti-government protests on Saturday, marking the first large-scale demonstrations since a brutal security crackdown in January that claimed thousands of lives.
The rallies erupted as universities reopened for the new semester, coinciding with traditional 40-day mourning ceremonies (chehelom) for victims killed during the height of nationwide unrest on January 8-9. Verified footage from Tehran shows hundreds of students marching peacefully on the campus of Sharif University of Technology, waving Iranian national flags and chanting slogans condemning Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a “murderous leader.” Similar gatherings occurred at Amirkabir University of Technology (also known as Polytechnic), Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, and Mashhad University in the northeast.
Protesters honored the memory of those slain in the earlier crackdown, which followed economic grievances that escalated into calls for regime change. Rights groups and reports indicate thousands died in the January violence—far exceeding official figures—with estimates from sources like the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency citing at least 7,000 deaths, including protesters and some security personnel. The unrest, which began in late December 2025 over currency collapse, inflation, and state mismanagement, grew into Iran’s most widespread challenge to the Islamic Republic since the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests.
At Sharif University, students clashed with pro-government Basij paramilitary members, who reportedly chanted in support of the regime while countering anti-government slogans. Demonstrators voiced demands including “Death to the Dictator,” “Freedom, freedom, freedom,” and support for exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi as a potential successor in a restored monarchy. In some instances, protesters wore black in mourning and laid flowers at sites where victims fell.
The protests unfolded amid heightened tensions, with reports of internet disruptions, heavy security presence, and threats from authorities. While no immediate large-scale arrests were confirmed from Saturday’s events, the regime has conducted widespread detentions—tens of thousands since December—targeting students, activists, professionals, and even minors. Human rights organizations have accused Iranian forces of torture, executions, and asset seizures in the aftermath.
These university-led actions highlight the enduring defiance of Iran’s youth, particularly Generation Z, who have remained at the forefront despite repression. The demonstrations come as international attention focuses on US-Iran relations, including military buildups and nuclear talks.
Clarion Newschannel will continue monitoring developments in this rapidly evolving situation.
Iranian Students Ignite Fresh Wave of Anti-Government Protests: Largest Demonstrations Since January’s Deadly Crackdown, Honoring Fallen Victims
