Iranian Exile Calls for U.S. Intervention Amid Protests
The exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has urged President Donald Trump to take action following a nationwide internet blackout imposed by the Iranian regime amid increasing anti-government demonstrations. He expressed belief that Trump is “a man of peace and a man of his word.”
Pahlavi, in a message on X, called for the president’s urgent support. He referred to the courageous Iranians protesting in the streets, facing not only bullets but also a total communications blackout, with no internet or landline access. He said, “Ali Khamenei, fearful of losing control, has threatened these brave individuals with severe repression.” Pahlavi warned that Khamenei might exploit this power outage to harm activists.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei criticized the protesters for supposedly damaging their cities to please Trump.
Pahlavi noted that Trump’s warning about potential intervention if violence was directed against protesters had likely deterred regime violence during recent protests. He encouraged Iranians to continue demonstrating late into the week, asserting that the regime is “very close to collapse.” He mentioned that protests are widespread, with numerous cities involved and chants of “Death to the dictator” ringing out.
Current reports indicate a high casualty count, with at least 36 dead, including both protesters and security forces. Pahlavi described the protests as “unprecedented,” highlighting unprecedented participation from the merchant class.
Trump, in a statement posted earlier, affirmed that the U.S. stands ready to assist if the Iranian government resorts to violence against peaceful protesters. He reiterated this sentiment in an interview, emphasizing that a strong response should be expected if the regime persists in its aggression.
During an appearance on Fox News, Trump remarked on possible intervention, suggesting he would respond harshly to any U.S. failings in relation to supporting the Iranian people. However, he appeared hesitant when asked about directly meeting with Pahlavi, stating that it might not be appropriate at this time.
As protests escalate, visual evidence from Tehran shows significant civil unrest, with shopkeepers in the Grand Bazaar being confronted by security forces. Reports mention that the Iranian regime’s enforcement of a nationwide internet blackout, observed by network data, began shortly after mass protests were called for.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the world watches the response to these calls for change within Iran.
