Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the former U.S.-backed Shah of Iran, is calling on Iranians to chant together on Thursday and Friday against the leadership of the Islamic republic as the two-week demonstrations circulate throughout the country.
Mr. Pahlavi issued his call this week in a video message posted on multiple social media platforms.
“Great nation of Iran, the eyes of the world are fixed upon you. Take to the streets, and in united ranks, shout out your demands,” he said on X. “Reports have reached us that the regime is deeply frightened and is attempting, once again, to cut off the internet. The suppression of the people will not go unanswered.”
Shutting down the internet will result in further calls for Iranians to take to the streets to voice their displeasure with the regime in Tehran, Mr. Pahlavi said.
“In this way, you will drive yet another nail into the coffin of this regime,” he said.
Mr. Pahlavi, who lives primarily in Washington, also directly addressed Iran’s security forces, telling them that they will inevitably be forced to make a choice.
“At a time when the brave and united people of Iran are building and writing history, my question to you is this: On which side of history will you stand? Alongside the criminals or alongside the people?” he said.
He said the Islamic republic, which he referred to as a “corrupt and repressive regime,” will fall.
“The only issue is the timing of its collapse, and that time is closer than ever,” Mr. Pahlavi said.
He said the level of support by the public for the coordinated protests on Thursday and Friday will determine the next course of action.
• Mike Glenn can be reached at mglenn@washingtontimes.com.
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