Reza Pahlavi, the U.S.-based son of Iran's last shah, called on Saturday for protesters to escalate their nationwide demonstrations by preparing to seize and hold city centres, as anti-government unrest enters its second week.
In a video message posted on social media, Pahlavi declared, "Our goal is no longer just to take to the streets. The goal is to prepare to seize and hold city centres." He urged Iranians to organise more targeted gatherings on Saturday and Sunday evenings, starting at 6 p.m. local time, and to bring national flags, symbols, and provisions for prolonged presence.
Pahlavi, who has positioned himself as a figure for a potential secular democratic transition, also hinted at his own intentions, stating he is "preparing to return to my homeland" soon, as the moment feels "very near". He encouraged strikes in critical sectors such as energy, transportation, oil, and gas to intensify pressure on the Islamic Republic's leadership.
The protests, which erupted in late December 2025 over severe economic hardships, including soaring inflation and a collapsing rial currency, have evolved into widespread calls for regime change.
Demonstrations have spread to major cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Tabriz, and Qom, with crowds chanting anti-regime slogans, some displaying the pre-1979 Lion and Sun flag, and confronting security forces.
Authorities imposed a nationwide internet blackout on January 8, 2026, which has now persisted for over 36 hours, severely restricting communication and information flow. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported connectivity dropping to near 1% of normal levels.
Iranian officials have labelled protesters "terrorists" and "rioters", vowing harsh measures. Tehran Prosecutor Ali Salehi threatened execution for those involved in what he called rebellion against the state.
The army has pledged to protect public property, while Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other figures have blamed external actors, particularly the United States and Israel, for orchestrating the unrest.
International reactions have included joint statements from Western foreign ministers condemning the killings and urging restraint. U.S. President Donald Trump has issued warnings against violence toward protesters.
