As missiles fly between Iran and Israel and Washington demands Tehran’s surrender, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last Shah, declared the Islamic Republic is on the brink of collapse and called for a nationwide uprising to end its “46-year nightmare.”
Pahlavi’s Call to Arms
In a statement released from Paris, Pahlavi asserted that the regime’s grip is failing, citing widespread unrest including a major prison break in Tehran where dozens of political prisoners reportedly escaped overnight. “The nightmare of this regime is nearing its end,” Pahlavi declared, urging Iranians to unite for a democratic transition. He directly appealed to Iran’s military and Revolutionary Guards to defect, stating, “Your loyalty belongs to the nation, not to collapsing oppressors.”
International Tensions as Backdrop
Pahlavi’s bold declaration unfolds against extreme regional volatility:
Israeli Air Supremacy: The IDF announced it established “total air dominance” over Tehran, enabling precise strikes.
U.S. Ultimatum: President Trump demanded civilians evacuate Tehran, warning of imminent “extreme actions” and reiterating calls for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.”
Ongoing Attacks: Iran launched two ballistic missile salvos at Israel within an hour overnight, both intercepted by Israeli defenses but triggering nationwide sirens.
Monarchist Strategy in Play
Pahlavi leverages recent diplomatic maneuvers to bolster his credibility:
Israeli Endorsement: His high-profile visit to Israel last month signaled tacit support from a key adversary of the Islamic Republic.
U.S. Connections: While not explicitly endorsed by the White House, Trump’s rhetoric aligns with Pahlavi’s goal of regime termination.
Popularity Contest: Pahlavi remains a polarizing figure domestically, but his message resonates with protest-weary Iranians and diaspora communities seeking alternatives.
Geopolitical Uncertainty
Diplomatic circles remain divided on U.S. intentions:
Does Trump seek Iran’s capitulation via military force (aligning with Netanyahu) or a negotiated surrender (closer to European views)?
Pahlavi’s intervention adds pressure but risks fracturing opposition unity; not all anti-regime groups support monarchical restoration.
Current Status
Tehran remains under Israeli aerial surveillance and U.S. evacuation warnings. Iranian state media dismissed Pahlavi as a “puppet of invaders,” while state security forces mobilized across major cities anticipating protests. The prison break incident underscores the regime’s eroding control, even as it projects strength through missile launches.
