Iran’s exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi on Sunday issued a fresh appeal to the Iranian people, urging them to continue protests and remain on the streets despite an intensifying crackdown by the Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led regime.
In a video message shared on social media, Pahlavi said the courage shown by protesters had drawn international attention, including from US President Donald Trump. He claimed that global leaders were closely watching the demonstrations and acknowledged Trump’s public support for Iranians seeking freedom.
“President Trump, as the leader of the free world, has seen your extraordinary bravery and has declared that he is ready to help you,” Pahlavi said. “Do not abandon the streets. My heart is with you, and I know I will soon be by your side.”
Pahlavi asserted that sustained protests had weakened Iran’s security apparatus, claiming that sections of the armed forces and police had either abandoned their posts or refused orders to suppress demonstrators. He alleged that the regime was increasingly relying on a small group of violent enforcers to control the unrest.
Warning protesters to stay united, the exiled leader advised people to remain on main roads and avoid breaking into smaller groups or side streets, saying such moves could put lives at risk.
His message came amid an ongoing nationwide internet blackout and reports that the death toll from protest-related violence has risen to at least 116, according to the Associated Press. Demonstrations intensified after Pahlavi’s earlier call for people to “claim public spaces,” leading to mass rallies across multiple provinces.
The renewed appeal also followed statements by President Trump expressing readiness to support the Iranian people and warning Tehran against violent repression. Despite this, Iranian authorities have remained defiant, with Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad reportedly threatening protesters with charges of being an “enemy of God,” an offence punishable by death.
Iran has faced mounting unrest since mid-2025, driven by economic hardship, high inflation, and political repression. Inflation reportedly reached over 42 percent in December 2025, worsening living conditions and fueling protests that began in Tehran and spread nationwide.