Iran Protests and US Presence Spark Clashes at Amirkabir University
Tehran has seen a resurgence of protests, with demonstrations both supporting and opposing the government occurring at universities across the capital. Recent clashes between pro- and anti-regime groups at Amirkabir University of Technology, also known as the Tehran Polytechnic, highlight the ongoing tensions within Iran, as the nation navigates increased scrutiny from the United States.
Recent Protests and Clashes
Verified social media footage from Sunday, February 22, 2026, showed scuffles breaking out between opposing groups at Amirkabir University. Some students reportedly chanted slogans calling for the restoration of the monarchy [CNN]. These protests followed earlier demonstrations on Saturday against the regime, prompting a government-backed counter-protest on Sunday, according to Iranian state media.
US Response and Diplomatic Tensions
The protests coincide with heightened rhetoric from the United States. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, stated that Trump is “curious” as to why Iran has not agreed to curb its nuclear program, particularly given the significant US military presence in the region [CNN]. Witkoff suggested that Trump is puzzled by Iran’s reluctance to negotiate, despite what he described as substantial pressure.
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted Iran’s national identity, stating, “Curious to know why we do not capitulate? Because we are IRANIAN.” [CNN]
About Amirkabir University of Technology
Amirkabir University of Technology (AUT), established in 1958, is Iran’s oldest technical university and is often referred to as the ‘Mother of Engineering Universities’ [Wikipedia]. Founded as a technical academy in 1928 and becoming a full-fledged university in 1956, AUT currently enrolls around 13,400 undergraduate and graduate students [Wikipedia]. Admission to AUT is highly competitive, requiring students to score within the top 1% of the Iranian University Entrance Exam, known as ‘Konkour’ [Wikipedia].
Looking Ahead
The ongoing protests and the escalating diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States suggest a period of continued instability. The situation at universities like Amirkabir University of Technology will likely remain a focal point for observing the internal dynamics within Iran and the potential for further unrest.