Iran rocked by fresh protests, as Trump threatens strikes over nuclear deal
Sydney Morning Herald
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iran is experiencing fresh waves of protests as university students across the country resume demonstrations against the regime at the start of a new academic semester. Amidst heightened tensions, US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering limited military strikes to pressure Iran into negotiating a new nuclear deal. This comes following a deadly government crackdown last month, which reportedly killed thousands of protesters. Meanwhile, state-affiliated media in Iran have reported on clashes between students and pro-government Basij militia on university campuses, signaling ongoing unrest.
The US has significantly bolstered its military presence in the region, deploying two aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and refueling planes near Iran. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has suggested that the administration is exploring extreme measures, including assassination options targeting key figures such as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s son and other religious leaders. This aggressive posture contrasts with diplomatic efforts, as upcoming talks between the US and Iran are set to take place in Geneva, with Oman facilitating the discussions.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed optimism about reaching a diplomatic solution, stating there is a “good chance” of resolving the nuclear issue through negotiations. However, Witkoff emphasized that any deal must include “zero enrichment,” a non-negotiable demand from the US to prevent Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities. This hardline stance reflects Trump’s broader strategy to maintain pressure on Iran, despite diplomatic efforts.
The situation in Iran is deeply concerning, with videos surfacing of protesters chanting against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and calling for regime change. Clashes have erupted on university campuses, including at Sharif University of Technology, where students reportedly attacked Basij militia members. The protests have also spread to other cities, such as Mashhad and Abdanan, where demonstrators are demanding political reform and an end to government repression.
This escalating conflict raises significant concerns for global stability. Trump’s reported consideration of military action and assassination plans underscores the volatile nature of US-Iran relations. Meanwhile, Iran’s internal protests highlight growing public frustration with the regime, potentially complicating diplomatic efforts. The outcome of these developments will have far-reaching implications for regional security and international relations.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/22/2026