Protests Erupt in Iran Following Crown Prince’s Call for Demonstrations
Protesters in Iran took to the streets into Friday morning, responding to a call from the exiled crown prince for demonstrations, even as the government enacted internet and international phone call shutdowns.
A brief online video shared by activists allegedly depicts demonstrators chanting against the government while gathered around bonfires, with debris scattered across Tehran and other regions.
State media in Iran finally addressed the protests on Friday, asserting that “terrorist operatives” from the United States and Israel were behind the chaos. While they mentioned “casualties”, specific details were lacking.
In a short speech on state television, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 86, hinted that the authorities would escalate their crackdown on the protesters, coinciding with chants of “Death to America!” from the crowd.
Khamenei suggested that demonstrators were “destroying their own cities to please the president of another country,” implicitly referring to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Although the total extent of the protests was hard to gauge due to communication issues, they represent a significant escalation in unrest that began due to the country’s economic decline, evolving into one of the most formidable challenges to the Iranian government in recent times, particularly since December 28.
These protests also mark a pivotal moment regarding the influence of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, whose ailing father fled Iran shortly before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Despite previously being a death sentence to support the Shah, chants embracing him now signify the widespread discontent that prompted the protests amidst an economic slump.
Reports indicate that at least 42 people have died and over 2,270 have been arrested connected to the violence surrounding these demonstrations, according to the Human Rights Defenders News Agency based in the U.S.
Prime Minister Pahlavi, who urged protests on Thursday night, called for another demonstration Friday at 8 p.m.
“The turning point for the protests was when former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to take to the streets at 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday,” commented Holly Dougless, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. “It’s clear from social media that Iranians took this call seriously.” She noted that the internet shutdown aimed to obscure the protests from the world, enabling security forces to act without scrutiny.
Thursday Night’s Protests Preceded Internet Shutdown
Witnesses noted that as the clock struck 8 p.m. on Thursday, chants erupted across Tehran, including cries of “Death to the dictator!” Others voiced support for the Shah, exclaiming “Death to the Islamic Republic!” and “This is the last battle! Pahlavi will return!” Thousands were seen on the streets before communications were severed.
Pahlavi stated, “Tonight, Iranians demanded freedom. In answer, the regime has cut off all communication lines.” He mentioned the internet and landlines were disconnected and suggested attempts to jam satellite signals could occur.
He appealed to European leaders to join forces with President Trump in calling for accountability from the Iranian administration.
“We urge you to utilize all possible technical, financial, and diplomatic resources to restore communication with the Iranian people and ensure their voices are heard,” he asserted. “Don’t silence the voices of my courageous fellow citizens.”
Pahlavi indicated he would suggest further actions depending on the responses to his outreach. His support, including for Israel, faced criticism, particularly following Israel’s military actions against Iran.
While some demonstrators have shown support for the Shah, it’s unclear whether this reflects allegiance to Pahlavi or a longing for the era before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The internet blackout seems to have crippled state-controlled news outlets, with the first official acknowledgment of the protests broadcasted on state television at 8 a.m. Friday.
State media indicated that violence resulted in injuries and fatalities during the protests, but further specifics were absent. They reported that vehicles, motorcycles, and public transport were set ablaze during the unrest.
Trump Renews Threat Over Protester Deaths
Iran has experienced widespread protests in recent years. With tightening sanctions and the aftermath of a 12-day conflict causing the rial to plummet, the economic crisis incited demonstrations against the regime.
It’s puzzled many why authorities haven’t intensified their crackdown on protestors. President Trump recently warned that should Iran “violently kill peaceful protesters,” the United States “will come to their rescue.”
In a Thursday interview with talk show host Hugh Hewitt, Trump reaffirmed his stance. He remarked, “Iran is very strong, stronger than I’m letting on. If you do that, you’re going to pay a hell of a price.”
When asked about the appropriateness of meeting with Prime Minister Pahlavi, Trump hesitated, stating, “I’m not sure if it’s right for the president to engage in that at this time. Let’s wait and see who rises.”
During a separate interview with Sean Hannity on Fox News, Trump even hinted that the elderly supreme leader Khamenei might be contemplating leaving Iran.
Khamenei criticized the protesters, suggesting they were “destroying their cities to please the president of another country,” alluding to Trump, as the crowd rallied with chants of “Death to America!”
