Exiled opposition leader Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last Shah, has said that Iran’s freedom is imminent. In a message posted on social media platform X, he claimed that widespread protests over the past two weeks, particularly in the last four days, have shaken the foundations of what he called the “illegitimate Islamic Republic.” Pahlavi announced the beginning of a new phase of a “national uprising” aimed at overthrowing the Islamic Republic and restoring Iran, adding that international support would soon follow.

The protests, which began on December 28, have spread across multiple cities and regions, driven by economic hardship, rising prices, and severe inflation. According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 538 people have been killed and more than 10,600 arrested so far, though the actual figures may be higher due to government suppression and information restrictions. The Iranian government has not released any official casualty or arrest data.

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly supported the Iranian protesters and warned that Washington could take military action if Tehran continues to suppress demonstrations violently. Analysts say Iran is facing a deep political crisis fueled by domestic unrest, opposition activity, and international pressure.