On December 28, 2025, Iranian security forces used force against nonviolent student protesters gathered on the campuses of the University of Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, and Amirkabir Polytechnic.

Iranian authorities deployed forces to the campuses in response to nationwide unrest. Once there, security personnel and plainclothes officers used physical force against the students, preventing them from leaving campus to join the street protests.

The protests took place amidst a nationwide uprising that began in late December 2025, sparked by an economic crisis marked by rapidly rising prices, currency devaluation, and a widespread struggle to afford basic necessities. As the movement gained momentum, grievances expanded to include dissatisfaction with government practices, lack of accountability, and the absence of legal avenues for dissent. By early January 2026, the government cut off internet access, enforcing a complete communications blackout.

Scholars at Risk is concerned about the use of force against students nonviolently exercising their right to freedom of expression – conduct that is protected by international human rights instruments including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. While state authorities have the responsibility to maintain order and prevent disruption, they must refrain from the disproportionate use of force and endangerment of civilians and must respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Such actions, beyond harming the immediate victims, have a chilling effect on academic freedom.

Sources:
https://iran-hrm.com/2026/01/06/systematic-suppression-of-universities-in-eight-days-of-nationwide-uprising-in-iran/
https://www.instagram.com/weareiranianstudents/p/DS3TnzFjE0K/?hl=af