Tehran, Iran – Student protests continued for a second day at some Iranian universities on Sunday. Dozens of pro-government students demonstrated, while counter-protesters gathered to demonstrate against the government. This coincided with the commemoration of the victims of the recent protests, according to videos published by local media. The student demonstrations began on Saturday, the first day of the new academic semester, and were intended to mark the 40th day since the protests erupted in late December.
Protests and areas of tension
Videos published by the Fars News Agency showed students gathering at several Tehran universities. The students were seen waving national flags and holding commemorative photos. The agency also reported “tensions” at at least three universities, where some students chanted slogans against the authorities. This prompted intervention by security forces. Meanwhile, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirmed that the security intervention resulted in injuries among the protesting students.
Background of the protests
The protests began in late December over deteriorating living conditions. They quickly transformed into a movement against the Iranian leadership. Protesters chanted slogans demanding political reforms or the return of the monarchy. Authorities documented more than 3,000 deaths, including members of the security forces and bystanders. The list also included “rioters” whom they claimed received external support from the United States and Israel. In contrast, HRANA documented more than 7,000 deaths, the majority of whom were protesters. It indicated that the actual figures could be much higher.
military and political tensions
These student protests come at a time when Iran is facing a US military buildup. At the same time, nuclear negotiations with Washington continue, further complicating the internal situation. This puts pressure on the Iranian leadership to take preemptive measures to contain the popular movement.
