Iran Protests Live: Reza Pahlavi Urges Trump to Support Uprising as Crackdown Turns Deadly

Iran is witnessing one of its most severe internal crises in decades as nationwide protests against the clerical regime continue to escalate, triggering a violent state crackdown and mounting international concern. Demonstrations that initially erupted over soaring inflation and economic distress have now transformed into direct calls for an end to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s rule.

According to rights groups operating outside Iran, more than 600 protesters have been killed and over 10,000 detained in just over two weeks. Iranian authorities have not released official figures, while activists say the actual toll could be significantly higher due to a near-total internet shutdown that has restricted information flow and independent verification.

Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a prominent voice backing the protesters. In multiple interviews and social media messages, Pahlavi urged Donald Trump and Western governments to stand firmly behind the Iranian people. He said the goal is a democratic transition, free elections and an end to clerical rule, adding that he is ready to return to Iran if circumstances allow.

International reactions have intensified. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the uprising could weaken Russia’s global position, given Tehran’s close ties with Moscow. European leaders including Emmanuel Macron condemned Iran’s violent crackdown, while the European Parliament banned Iranian diplomats from its premises.

Verified footage circulated by Reuters, BBC Persian and human rights organisations shows security forces firing live ammunition at protesters across Tehran, Mashhad, Kermanshah and other cities. Videos from a morgue near Tehran’s Kahrizak Forensic Medical Centre appear to show dozens of bodies wrapped in shrouds as families search for missing relatives.

Iranian authorities insist the situation is “under control” and blame foreign-backed “terrorists” for the unrest. President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US and Israel of interference, while warning of retaliation if Washington launches military action.

The United States has escalated pressure, with Trump announcing a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran. However, senior US officials and lawmakers remain divided, warning that military intervention could backfire by uniting Iranians behind the regime.

As internet blackouts deepen and protests persist, analysts say Iran is facing its most serious challenge since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with the coming days likely to shape the country’s political future.