Fresh protests erupted across Tehran as President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said Trump is “curious” why Iran has not agreed to curb its nuclear program despite mounting U.S. pressure.
Speaking on Fox News, Witkoff said the president believes Iran faces overwhelming military and economic pressure but has yet to make meaningful concessions. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi rejected the remarks, saying Iran will not “capitulate.”
Iranian university students have launched a wave of new protests across the country, calling for the return of exiled prince Reza Pahlavi and for a mourning period for protesters who have been killed. #iran #protest #university #tehran #rezapahlavi pic.twitter.com/NHr7hEVxPZ
— 7NEWS Australia (@7NewsAustralia) February 22, 2026
Clashes were reported at several Tehran universities as anti-government demonstrations coincided with memorial events for those killed during January unrest. State media said pro-government rallies also took place, while videos showed scuffles between rival groups.
The unrest comes as the U.S. boosts its military presence in the region, including the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group.
Meanwhile, indirect nuclear talks are set to resume in Geneva, with both sides signaling cautious interest in a diplomatic solution despite deep disagreements over uranium enrichment.
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