Iranian families mark protest killings as schools observe strikes

Al JazeeraEN 5 min read 100% complete by Maziar MotamediFebruary 18, 2026 at 06:37 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Families across Iran commemorated loved ones killed during protests last month, marking 40 days of mourning on Tuesday and Wednesday. Ceremonies took place at cemeteries nationwide, including Behesht-e Zahra in Tehran, and in cities like Lahijan, Mashhad, and Najafabad. Mourners honored the deceased with flower petals, candles, and chants, while teachers reportedly held school strikes in protest of the killings. Some commemorations occurred in smaller cities and villages, such as Abdanan, where mourners reportedly fled gunfire. In Chenar, demonstrators chanted against the government during a march to honor those killed. The protests and subsequent mourning stem from events on January 8 and 9, when thousands were killed amid an internet shutdown.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ilam 40% Quchan 40% Mashhad 40% Marvdasht 40% Najafabad 40% Abdanan 40% Lahijan 40% Behesht-e Zahra 50% Kahrizak 50% Sepehr Shokri 60% Tehran ×270% Iran ×490%

Keywords

protest killings 100% iran protests 90% mourning ceremonies 80% teachers' strikes 70% state-imposed internet shutdown 60% death to the dictator 50% behesht-e zahra 40% kahrizak medical examiner's office 40%