Exiled Crown Prince Calls for Global Support to Overthrow Iranian Government

Prince Reza Pahlavi Appeals for International Support

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last Shah, has urged the international community to support protesters in their effort to overthrow the Iranian government, expressing confidence that "the Islamic Republic will fall - not if, but when." The opposition leader, based in the United States, has called for "surgical strikes" against the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, asserting that such actions "will ease our task and prevent further loss of life."

Since the onset of the protests, over 2,000 demonstrators have been reported killed, according to human rights groups. The demonstrations began on December 28, triggered by economic issues, rapidly evolving into calls for the removal of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Iranian government has labeled the protests as "clashes" incited by the country’s enemies. Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent figure in the fractured opposition in Iran, previously urging Iranians to escalate their protests. However, protesters have faced deadly force from authorities amid near-total internet and communication service restrictions.

During a press conference in Washington, Pahlavi stated his intention to return to Iran and outlined a plan for creating a new constitution in the country. He claimed that certain sectors of the Iranian security apparatus have refused to partake in the suppression of the protests, and that Iranian authorities have brought in fighters from foreign militias to quell the demonstrations.

When asked about the future leadership of Iran, Pahlavi emphasized, "It is the decision of the Iranian people." He noted, "I am trying to assist them in liberating themselves." He highlighted his support for a governance program based on principles of territorial integrity for Iran, the separation of religion from state, individual liberties, and the right of the Iranian people to choose their desired form of democratic governance.

The current wave of protests began after merchants in Tehran went on strike due to rising living costs and currency devaluation. The demonstrations quickly spread across the country, targeting the clerical establishment in Iran, particularly the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Protesters have chanted slogans such as "Death to Dictatorship" and "Seyyed Ali [Khamenei] will be overthrown this year." According to the U.S. Human Rights Agency (HRANA), at least 2,453 protesters have been killed since the unrest began, including 14 children, 156 individuals affiliated with security forces or the government, and 14 uninvolved civilians. The agency also reports that an additional 18,470 people have been arrested.