Student Protests Erupt Across Iranian Universities
Students at multiple universities in Iran have organized anti-government protests, marking the first demonstrations on this scale since the authorities' deadly crackdown last month.
The BBC has verified footage showing students marching at Sharif University of Technology in Tehran at the start of the new semester on Saturday. Reports indicate a similar rally took place in the northeastern city of Mashhad.
The protesters commemorated the thousands who lost their lives during the nationwide mass protests that were suppressed.
US Military Presence and Diplomatic Developments
The United States has increased its military presence near Iran, with President Donald Trump stating he is considering a limited military strike.
US and European allies suspect Iran is advancing toward developing a nuclear weapon, a claim Iran has consistently denied.
On Tuesday, US and Iranian officials met in Switzerland, reporting progress in talks aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear program.
Despite this, President Trump stated afterward:
"The world will find out over the next, probably, 10 days" whether a deal will be reached with Iran or if the US will take military action.
Previously, Trump has expressed support for the protesters, at one point encouraging them with a promise that
"help is on its way".
Details of the Protests
Verified footage by the BBC shows hundreds of protesters peacefully marching and chanting near Sharif University of Technology on Saturday.
Students also called for additional rallies on Sunday.
Unverified footage has surfaced showing a peaceful sit-in protest at Beheshti University in Tehran.
Reports indicate sizeable protests occurred in other locations later that day.
Unverified videos posted online depict clashes between pro- and anti-government groups at a university in Tehran.
It remains unclear whether any demonstrators have been arrested.
Casualty Figures and Official Statements
In late January, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (Hrana) confirmed at least 6,159 deaths since the unrest began, including 5,804 protesters, 92 children, and 214 government-affiliated individuals.
Hrana is investigating an additional 17,000 reported deaths.
Iranian authorities stated late last month that over 3,100 people had been killed, asserting that most were security personnel or bystanders attacked by "rioters."
Context and Political Dynamics
Saturday's protests occur as Iranian authorities prepare for a potential conflict with the US.
The exiled opposition strongly urges President Trump to follow through on his threats and launch strikes, hoping for a swift collapse of the current hardline government.
Conversely, other opposition groups oppose foreign intervention.
Both sides have engaged in social media disinformation campaigns to amplify their conflicting narratives regarding the desires of the Iranian people.
