Iran Protests: Amid escalating demonstrations against Khamenei, exiled Shah gives big message to Iranians

Iran Protests: The anti-government protests against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Iran are escalating. On Saturday, demonstrations continued for the 13th day across the country, and the movement is spreading despite a harsh security crackdown and a near-total internet blackout. 

What appeal has Reza Pahlavi issued for the people of Iran?

Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has appealed to protesters to take the movement to a new level. In a statement on Saturday, Reza Pahlavi said the goal should now be not just to take to the streets, but to occupy and control key installations across multiple cities. He called for intensified organized civil resistance nationwide to exert decisive pressure on the current regime.

The son of the former Shah of Iran specifically urged employees and workers in crucial sectors of the economy to launch a nationwide strike. He described workers in the transportation, oil, gas, and energy sectors as the backbone of the movement, saying that a halt in work in these areas would directly impact the regime.

What is the death toll in the Iran protests?

According to reports, the situation in Iran is becoming increasingly serious. There are conflicting reports regarding the death toll. As of January 10, at least 217 deaths were recorded in just six hospitals in Tehran. Other national reports put the death toll at a minimum of 65, including 50 protesters and 15 security personnel or government-affiliated individuals. In addition, widespread arrests have been made across the country. More than 2,300 people have been detained in 180 cities so far.

How is Reza Pahlavi influencing the Iran protests? 

Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent opposition voice among Iranians living abroad. The Iranian opposition has long been fragmented, but his recent appeals appear to be gaining support from many protesters inside the country who are demanding change. According to activists, the protests have now spread to at least 222 locations across 26 provinces.

Reza Pahlavi has also sought international support and appealed directly to US President Donald Trump for intervention. Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Khamenei has dismissed external pressure as ineffective and warned that arrogant rulers throughout history have always met their downfall.

What slogans are Iranian protesters chanting? 

In several cities, protesters have chanted slogans such as "Death to the dictator" and "Long live the Shah", harkening back to the monarchical era before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. An incident involving the removal of the Iranian flag from a public place in the city of Mashhad has also been reported.

How has the Khamenei regime reacted to the protests?

The government has deployed a large number of security forces to quell the protests and has imposed strict restrictions on internet and phone services. Despite this, protesters are questioning the government's priorities and chanting slogans like "Neither Gaza, nor Lebanon, my life for Iran."