Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, has urged the international community to support protesters seeking to overthrow the Iranian government, asserting that the Islamic Republic will fall – not if, but when, according to BBC reports.
Pahlavi, a U.S.-based opposition leader, called for a “surgical strike” against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), claiming such action would “ease our task and prevent further loss of life.”
The protests, which began on December 28, 2025, were initially sparked by economic grievances but quickly escalated into calls for the removal of Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei. Human rights groups report that over 2,000 protesters have been killed since the demonstrations began. The Iranian government has described the unrest as foreign-backed riots.
Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent figure within Iran’s fragmented opposition and has previously encouraged citizens to escalate protests. Protesters, however, have faced deadly force from authorities, who also imposed near-total internet and communications blackouts.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran against targeting demonstrators, stating earlier this week that “help is on the way.” In an interview with CBS News, Trump emphasized that the U.S. would take “very strong action” against Iran if protesters were executed. Later, he said reports indicated the killings had stopped but did not rule out potential military action.
Iranian parliamentary leaders responded by warning that any U.S. strike would render Israeli and U.S. military and maritime assets in the region legitimate targets. In response, both the U.S. and the U.K. have reduced personnel at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, described by a U.S. official as a “precautionary measure.”
At a press conference in Washington on Friday, Pahlavi pledged to return to Iran and outlined plans for drafting a new constitution. He claimed some elements of Iran’s security apparatus had refused to suppress protesters, forcing authorities to deploy foreign militia fighters.
Regarding future leadership in Iran, Pahlavi emphasized that “it is up to the Iranian people to decide.” He also stated that he enjoys popular support and seeks to assist citizens in achieving self-liberation.
Pahlavi advocates a government based on territorial integrity, separation of religion and state, individual liberties, and the right of Iranians to choose their democratic system of governance.
The protests began after Tehran merchants went on strike due to rising living costs and a declining currency, rapidly spreading nationwide and turning against Iran’s clerical establishment, particularly Khamenei. Demonstrators have reportedly chanted slogans such as “Death to the dictator” and “Ali Khamenei will fall this year.”
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,453 protesters have been killed, including 14 children, 156 security or government personnel, and 14 unrelated civilians. The agency also reports that 18,470 protesters have been arrested since the unrest began.
