Reza Pahlavi Calls for Nationwide Strike in Iran, Says He Is Preparing to Return

Paris, January 10:
Iran’s former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, living in exile, has urged workers across key economic sectors in Iran to launch nationwide strikes and intensify protests against the ruling Islamic Republic. In a strong video message shared on social media platform X, Pahlavi said he is “preparing to return” to Iran and stand alongside citizens during what he described as a decisive phase of a national revolution.

Expressing solidarity with protesters, Pahlavi praised Iranians for continuing demonstrations against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei despite threats and repression. He called recent protests a powerful response to the regime’s attempts to silence dissent.

Call for Economic Shutdown and Occupation of City Centres

Pahlavi specifically appealed to workers in transportation, oil, gas, energy, and other critical economic sectors to begin coordinated strikes. According to him, cutting off the regime’s financial lifelines while maintaining a strong street presence would weaken the state’s ability to suppress protests.

He also urged citizens to gather in large numbers in central areas of cities, particularly Tehran, starting from the evening hours, and to merge protest groups coming from multiple directions. The aim, he said, is no longer symbolic protest but preparing to capture and hold key city centres.

Support for Security Forces and Youth Protest Groups

Addressing members of Iran’s armed and security forces who oppose the regime, Pahlavi asked them to further disrupt state repression mechanisms. He also acknowledged the role of youth-led protest groups, encouraging continued resistance until the suppression apparatus is completely disabled.

“Preparing to Return to the Homeland”

In a significant statement, Pahlavi declared that he is preparing for his return to Iran. He said he hopes to stand beside the Iranian people at the moment of what he believes will be the victory of a national revolution, adding that such a day is “very near.”

Protests Continue Despite Internet Blackout

Meanwhile, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported that at least 116 protests across 22 provinces were recorded within a single day, including 20 large-scale protests involving more than 1,000 participants each. Due to ongoing internet shutdowns, analysts believe the actual number of demonstrations may be significantly higher.

Internet monitoring group NetBlocks confirmed that a nationwide internet blackout has severely restricted Iranians’ ability to communicate and share information. Reports suggest that some protesters are using satellite internet services like Starlink to send updates to foreign media outlets.

Global Condemnation of Crackdown

Several world leaders and foreign ministers, including representatives from Australia, Canada, and the European Union, have condemned the killing and arrest of protesters in Iran. In a joint statement, they praised the courage of Iranian citizens and criticized the regime’s harsh crackdown on peaceful demonstrations.