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Iranian students protest for third day to honor massacre victims

Feb 21, 2026, 3:06 PM60
(Update: Feb 25, 2026, 1:00 AM)
currency of Iran
capital city of Iran

Iranian students protest for third day to honor massacre victims

  • Students at several Iranian universities protested against the government's violent crackdown from January.
  • Demonstrators have been chanting anti-government slogans and protesting in honor of the victims.
  • The protests indicate a significant discontent among the youth and the potential for continued unrest.
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Iran has witnessed a resurgence of student protests following the start of a new academic term. Over the past few days, students at various universities, including those in Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan, have gathered to express their discontent with the Islamic Republic's regime. They have been chanting anti-government slogans, such as 'Death to Khamenei', as a direct response to the violent crackdown that occurred in January, where thousands of protesters were reportedly killed. These protests coincide with ceremonies commemorating the victims of the crackdown, which has become a catalyst for renewed unrest in educational institutions across the country. The brutal events of January involved extensive violence perpetrated by security forces against demonstrators. Reports indicate that over 7,000 individuals lost their lives during this period, leading to a somber atmosphere among families and friends of the victims. Young protesters are vocalizing their grief and anger not only for the loss of their peers but also in defiance of the government’s attempts to suppress dissent. Many students have stated that their classrooms remain empty because they are mourning the deceased. The protests signify a broader sentiment among the youth in Iran, who are increasingly disillusioned with the current regime. Iranians, especially students, feel an obligation to speak out against what they perceive as ongoing tyranny and violence. Many protestors have shared their motivations for participating, voicing a sense of duty to remember their friends and classmates who have been killed. Videos circulating on social media demonstrate the depth of their emotions, with images of students holding up portraits of those who died and chanting loudly in defiance of government forces. While the Iranian government has attempted to quell protests through heavy security presence, the determination of students to protest has only grown stronger. University campuses have historically been hotbeds of political activity, and the recent demonstrations mark the first significant wave of discord since the previous crackdown. These protests, amplified by the mourning ceremonies held for victims of the January violence, highlight not just a call for justice but also reflect the aspirations of many for political change. Many view these brave acts as the first steps in the ongoing struggle against oppression in Iran, positioning the students at the forefront of the resistance against an authoritarian regime.

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