Son of Iran’s last shah calls for mass protests and ‘decisive battle’

Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, has called on Iranians to take part in mass protests on Jan. 8 and 9, saying he is ready to lead a transitional process aimed at political change.

In a message shared on social media, Pahlavi said his goal was peaceful change “through a national referendum and a constitutional assembly,” adding that he was “more ready than ever to engage in the struggle inside Iran” for what he described as a “decisive battle.”

He also urged members of the armed forces and security services to side with protesters and refrain from using force. Pahlavi said the collapse of Iran’s “corrupt regime” was closer than ever and described the moment as a “last chance” for security forces to join the nation.

“Those who stand with the people will be respected, while those involved in repression will be held accountable,” he wrote.