US President Donald Trump said the Iranian regime had killed around 32,000 people in a relatively short period during the recent wave of protests, highlighting the brutality of the repression
He further mentioned that he is considering limited military action against Iran, while American sources indicate that military preparations are already well advanced.
Organizations such as Amnesty International warn that at least 30 people, including children, are at imminent risk of execution after participating in the January 2025 demonstrations – in fact, the most intense protests occurred in late 2025 and early 2026, but the liveblog refers to them as part of the same cycle of uprising.
Amnesty demands the immediate suspension and annulment of these death sentences.
On Iranian streets, February 20th marked the 40th day of mourning for many victims, a traditional period in Islam that turned funeral ceremonies into major acts of protest.
In several cities, such as Karaj, Isfahan, Hsgtak and others, crowds gathered in rituals called “memory street” or “mourning dance”.
People sang national anthems such as “Ey Iran”, applauded, honked their horns and called for freedom, even in the face of a strong presence of security forces.
Reports show that authorities are trying to prevent these tributes with motorcyclists and other intimidating measures, but popular courage persists.
Emotional personal stories emerge: the father of Sam Afshari, a 17-year-old shot during protests in Karaj and later killed in hospital – allegedly by security forces while intubated – describes how his son was “finished” right there.
Families face difficulties finding graves, as the high number of deaths has led to overlapping burials, including those of children.
Iran International analysts and programs criticize the silence of clergy and religious authorities in the face of the deaths, which would further distance the population from organized religion.
Meanwhile, on the international stage, the Pentagon evacuated hundreds of troops from bases in Qatar and Bahrain to avoid Iranian retaliation.
Satellite images reveal that Iran has reinforced nuclear facilities in places such as Isfahan and Natanz after damage in previous clashes, and held military exercises with Russia.
In the US Congress, there is pressure that any military action against Iran will need congressional approval, with lawmakers highlighting the continued threat posed by the regime: anti-American slogans, nuclear program, ballistic missiles, support for terrorism and fierce internal repression.
The US Army is preparing for operations that could be prolonged.
Overall, the coverage conveys a climate of urgency, solidarity with protesters and concern about possible regional escalation.
The mourning ceremonies for the 40th day rekindled the flames of protests, showing that despite extreme repression, the desire for change and freedom has not disappeared in Iran.
Published in 02/21/2026 12h45
Text adapted by AI (Grok) and translated via Google API in the English version. Images from public image libraries or credits in the caption.
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