Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the last Iranian shah, urged the international community on Friday to support Iranian protesters seeking to overthrow the country's government. Speaking at a news conference in Washington, Pahlavi, a U.S.-based opposition leader, expressed confidence that "the Islamic Republic will fall - not if, but when."
Pahlavi specifically called on the world to target the leadership of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, arguing that such action would "facilitate our task and prevent more loss of life." His appeal comes as protests, initially sparked by economic grievances on December 28, have evolved into widespread demands for the end of Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei's rule.
According to a human rights group, more than 2,500 protesters have been killed in the government crackdown that followed. The Iranian government, however, has characterized the protests as "riots" instigated by Iran's enemies. Authorities have responded with deadly force, coupled with near-total shutdowns of internet and communication services.
Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent figure within the fragmented Iranian opposition, repeatedly calling on Iranians to escalate their protests. His latest appeal highlights the ongoing struggle between the Iranian government and its citizens, with the exiled prince seeking international intervention to tip the balance in favor of the protesters. The situation remains tense, with no immediate resolution in sight.
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