The anti-government movement against Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is intensifying. Protests have persisted nationwide for the 13th consecutive day, and despite stringent security measures and an almost total internet blackout, the movement continues to expand. Meanwhile, Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has called on protesters to elevate the movement to a new level.
Reza Pahlavi stated in a Saturday address that the focus should no longer be confined to the streets, but rather to seize and control major city centers. He emphasized accelerating organized civil resistance across the country to exert decisive pressure on the current regime.
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Former Shah's son Reza Pahlavi specifically urged workers in critical economic sectors to initiate a nationwide strike. He highlighted transport, oil, gas, and energy sector workers as the backbone of the movement, indicating that disruptions in these areas would directly impact the regime.
Claims of 217 Deaths in Iran
Reports suggest that the situation in Iran is increasingly grave. Disparate statistics on casualties have surfaced, with records from just six hospitals in Tehran showing at least 217 deaths recorded by January 10. Nationally, other reports indicate at least 65 deaths, including 50 protesters and 15 security personnel or government affiliates. Additionally, widespread arrests have been made, with over 2,300 individuals detained across 180 cities.
Pahlavi Emerges as a Key Voice
Among the Iranian diaspora, Reza Pahlavi is emerging as a leading opposition voice. Historically fragmented, Iran's opposition appears to be gaining support from many protesters demanding change within the country following his recent appeals. Activists report that protests have now spread to at least 222 locations across 26 provinces.
What Are Iranian Protesters Chanting?
In numerous cities, protesters have been chanting slogans like 'Death to the Dictator' and 'Long Live the Shah,' evoking the era before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. There has also been an incident in Mashhad where the Iranian flag was removed from a public site.
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Khamenei Regime Strives to Suppress Movement
To crush the movement, the government has deployed extensive security forces and imposed strict restrictions on internet and phone services. Yet, protesters continue to question the government's priorities, chanting slogans like 'Neither Gaza nor Lebanon, my life for Iran.'
Reza Pahlavi has also sought international support, appealing directly to former U.S. President Donald Trump for intervention. Conversely, Supreme Leader Khamenei dismissed external pressure, warning that history shows that arrogant rulers inevitably face downfall.
