Iran students resume anti-government protests
BBC World
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iranian students have resumed anti-government protests on a significant scale for the first time since last month's deadly crackdown, which saw authorities suppress nationwide demonstrations with force. Students at several universities across Iran, including Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, staged peaceful marches and sit-ins, chanting slogans like "death to the dictator" and "freedom." Clashes broke out between protesters and pro-government supporters, marking a escalation in tensions.
The protests were initially sparked by economic grievances but quickly evolved into broader anti-regime demonstrations. Last month's wave of unrest, which began in January, was the largest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. According to reports, at least 6,000 people were killed, including thousands of protesters, children, and bystanders. The Iranian authorities have reported over 3,100 deaths, but claim most were security personnel or civilians attacked by "rioters."
Amid these developments, US-Iran nuclear talks in Switzerland have shown progress, though uncertainty remains. President Trump has hinted at the possibility of military action if a deal isn't reached soon. Meanwhile, Iranian students' renewed activism comes amid speculation that the country is nearing a potential conflict with the US.
The situation underscores ongoing tensions within Iran and its complex relationship with global powers. While some exiled opposition groups call for external intervention, others oppose it, reflecting deep divisions in both domestic and international perceptions of the regime.
These protests highlight the persistent unrest in Iran and its implications for global
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/21/2026