Students across multiple universities in Iran have staged significant anti-government protests. These are the largest demonstrations since last month's severe crackdown by authorities.

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The BBC has verified footage of protests at Sharif University of Technology in Tehran on Saturday. Clashes erupted between demonstrators and government supporters.

A sit-in took place at Shahid Beheshti University in Tehran, with other rallies reported in the north-east. Students were honoring thousands killed during mass protests in January.

Parallel to these events, the US has increased its military presence near Iran. President Donald Trump is considering a limited military strike. The US and European allies suspect Iran is moving towards developing a nuclear weapon, a claim Iran denies.

US and Iranian officials met in Switzerland and reported progress in talks to curb Iran's nuclear program. Despite this, Trump stated the world would know "over the next, probably, 10 days" whether a deal would be reached or military action taken.

Footage shows hundreds of protesters marching peacefully at Sharif University, waving Iranian flags and chanting "death to the dictator," referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Pro-government supporters staged a rival rally nearby, with scuffles breaking out between the groups. Verified photos also show a peaceful sit-in at Shahid Beheshti University and protests at Amir Kabir University of Technology.

In Mashhad, students chanted "Freedom, freedom" and "Students, shout for your rights." Additional protests were reported with calls for more rallies on Sunday. It is unclear if any demonstrators were arrested.

Last month's protests, originating from economic grievances, evolved into the largest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana) confirmed at least 6,159 people killed, including protesters, children, and officials.

Iranian authorities reported over 3,100 deaths, claiming most were security personnel or bystanders attacked by "rioters."

The protests coincide with Iran's preparation for a potential conflict with the US. While some exiled opposition groups urge Trump to strike, others oppose foreign intervention. Disinformation campaigns on social media highlight these conflicting narratives.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 21 Feb 2026

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