Iran’s former crown prince Reza Pahlavi has called on the country’s armed forces to stand alongside the people amid ongoing nationwide protests. He urged demonstrators to continue their movement, saying Iran’s situation is no longer confined to discussions at the international level but is now moving toward concrete action.
In a post shared on social media platform X, Reza Pahlavi addressed Iranians as “my fellow countrymen.” He said the world has witnessed the courage of Iran’s protesters and heard their voices. He also warned demonstrators to remain vigilant so that authorities cannot create a false impression that normal life has returned.
At the same time, Pahlavi delivered a direct message to members of Iran’s military and security forces. He urged them not to see themselves as servants of a religious ruling system, but as protectors of the Iranian people. Stressing the need to ensure civilian safety, he said time is running out and that decisive action is required now.
Born in Tehran in 1960, Reza Pahlavi is the eldest son of Iran’s last monarch, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. He was declared crown prince during childhood, but the 1979 Iranian Revolution ended the monarchy and eliminated his path to the throne. Since then, he has lived in exile in the United States with his wife and three daughters.
Meanwhile, Iran’s state television has announced plans for large-scale state funerals for security personnel killed during the ongoing unrest. Semi-official news agency Tasnim reported that the first funeral will be held at Tehran University on Wednesday, with additional ceremonies planned in the coming days.
According to state media, more than a hundred security force members have been killed during violent protests that have continued for over two weeks. The government has blamed “foreign powers” for the attacks.
