Iranian Students Protest as Tensions Rise with U.S.
Anti-regime protests erupted on Iranian university campuses on Saturday, February 21, 2026, marking the first day of the new academic semester. Students clashed with pro-government groups amid ongoing public discontent following last month’s unrest and escalating tensions with the United States.
Protests at Amirkabir and Sharif Universities
Students at Amirkabir University of Technology and Sharif University of Technology, both located in Tehran, gathered on campus chanting slogans against the government and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Videos circulating on social media depict opposing groups confronting each other. Pro-regime students displayed Iranian flags and chanted slogans supporting Khamenei, while anti-regime demonstrators called for the return of the monarchy, referencing Reza Pahlavi, the son of the ousted Shah.
History of Student Activism in Iran
Iran’s universities have historically been centers of political activism and pro-democracy movements. Students played a significant role in the 2022 “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests, which resulted in numerous arrests and suspensions. The current government, under President Masoud Pezeshkian, has stated that many students and professors involved in those protests have been allowed to return to their studies, and pledged to avoid mass arrests.
Government Response and Allegations
The semi-official Fars news agency, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, reported that chants included calls for the overthrow of the “dictator” and pro-monarchy slogans. The agency alleged that a memorial at Sharif University was disrupted by individuals wearing face masks. It also claimed that pro-regime students objected to violations of the Ramadan ban on public eating and drinking.
Symbolism and Remembrance
Students at Amirkabir University chanted, “This fallen flower is devoted to the homeland,” a reference to protesters killed in previous demonstrations, who are now referred to as “Eternal Names.” At Shahid Beheshti University, students displayed placards demanding the release of detained classmates. Students in Mashhad called for “freedom.”
Recent Unrest and International Concerns
The protests follow a period of unrest that began over economic grievances and spread to 400 towns and cities, according to Iranian authorities, resulting in 3,117 deaths. Foreign human rights organizations claim the actual death toll is significantly higher. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that 32,000 protesters were killed, a claim disputed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who requested evidence.
Mourning Rituals and Shifting Traditions
Recent mourning ceremonies marking 40 days since the deaths of protesters have seen a departure from traditional customs. Mourners have replaced black attire with white clothing, released white pigeons and balloons, and incorporated music and dancing into the ceremonies. Anti-government slogans were also chanted at these gatherings.
Mounting Pressures on the Islamic Republic
The combination of domestic unrest and increasing external pressure has created an unprecedented situation for the Islamic Republic. Iranian authorities have stated their preparedness for potential conflict while simultaneously seeking a diplomatic agreement with the U.S. Regarding their nuclear program, but have rejected discussions about their missile program.