Iran Students Resume Anti-Government Protests | RealClearPolitics
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by Jaroslav Lukiv, BBC NewsFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Iranian student-led protests have resumed, marking a significant escalation in antigovernment demonstrations following last month's violent crackdown on nationwide mass protests. Student protesters are honoring thousands of those killed during the suppression of widespread dissent, which included peaceful demonstrators, activists, and bystanders. The resumption of these protests highlights growing tensions between the Iranian government and its citizens, particularly among young people, who have become a driving force behind antigovernment movements.
The current wave of student protests began as a direct response to the deaths of several students during last month's clashes with security forces. Universities across Iran have seen clashes between students and police, with reports of arrests, injuries, and even fatalities. The government has responded with increased surveillance, censorship, and restrictions on internet access, which have only fueled frustration among protesters. Despite these measures, student-led movements continue to gain momentum, with demonstrations spreading beyond major cities like Tehran.
The significance of these protests lies in their potential to spark broader societal change. Students are often at the forefront of antigovernment movements in Iran, as they represent a generation disillusioned with the current regime's policies and restrictions on free expression. The ongoing clashes between protesters and security forces underscore the deepening divide between the
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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/22/2026