Iran’s Ministry of Education reported that protesters killed 22 students and 5 teachers during recent demonstrations across the country. The ministry released the figures on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Hossein Sadeghi, Head of the Ministry’s Communications and Public Relations Department, said the ministry’s numbers differ from those released by human rights organizations.
Workers in Taraneh started the protests on December 28, 2025, to oppose rising prices and the high cost of living. The demonstrations quickly spread to other areas and turned violent. Protesters clashed with security forces in multiple cities, leading to injuries and arrests. The Iranian Security Council reported a total of 3,117 deaths in the protests. It said that 2,427 of these deaths involved innocent civilians and members of security forces.
Human rights organizations reported higher numbers. One Iranian human rights group documented 7,015 deaths during the protests, including 226 children. Investigators are still looking into another 11,744 deaths, for which they have not yet collected full evidence. The demonstrations caused widespread damage across the country. Officials said protesters damaged 250 schools, 300 mosques, and 90 scientific centers. They also damaged 2,221 vehicles belonging to security forces. Authorities are working to repair the destruction and restore order.
The protests reflect ongoing social and economic challenges in Iran, including high inflation, unemployment, and dissatisfaction with government policies. Citizens expressed widespread anger over the rising cost of living, which fueled the protests. Demonstrators demanded changes to government policies and fair treatment for all citizens. The Ministry of Education insists its figures accurately reflect the events, but independent organizations warn that the real death toll may be higher.
The gap between government reports and human rights data highlights disagreements over how to count the casualties. International observers have closely followed the protests. Human rights groups and foreign governments have called for peaceful solutions, dialogue, and investigations to prevent further loss of life. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities continue to maintain security while promising to address the grievances behind the protests. The situation remains tense, and authorities warn that future demonstrations could lead to further clashes if the underlying economic and social issues are not resolved.