Iranian students rally as universities reopen after nationwide protests
Al Jazeera
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Thousands of Iranian students took to the streets as universities across the country reopened after a month of deadly nationwide protests. The demonstrations, which occurred in Tehran and other cities, were marked by clashes between pro-establishment Basij members, backed by security forces, and anti-government protesters. Universities like the University of Tehran and Ferdowsi University of Mashhad saw heavy security presences, with footage showing violent confrontations and arrests. State media portrayed the pro-government students as honoring protest victims, while online videos shared by student groups depicted a different narrative of suppression and unrest.
The protests gained momentum amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, following January’s deadly clashes where thousands were killed during a communications blackout imposed by authorities. Students raised pre-revolutionary Iranian flags, symbolizing support for the deposed Shah and challenging the current regime. Basij members clashed with protesters, leading to arrests and further violence. In Ilam province, villagers celebrated the release of a teacher detained during earlier protests, highlighting widespread frustration with government actions.
The discrepancies between state media reports and online footage underscored the ongoing struggle for control over public narrative. While state-affiliated outlets promoted pro-government narratives, grassroots videos exposed the harsh realities faced by protesters. The situation reflects deeper divisions within Iranian society, particularly among youth, who are increasingly vocal in their opposition to the theocratic regime.
These events highlight the fragile political landscape in Iran, with domestic unrest coinciding with escalating tensions with US and Israeli forces over nuclear negotiations and regional security. The protests’ persistence raises concerns about Iran’s internal stability and its ability to navigate external pressures, making this a critical moment for global observers tracking
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/22/2026