Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Urges US Support and Military Defection Amid Protests

Amid widespread protests in Iran against the clerical regime, exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has urged the US to act swiftly to support demonstrators and push for regime change. He called on Iranian security forces and the military to join the protests, emphasizing their duty to protect citizens. Former Empress Farah Pahlavi echoed these appeals. The Trump administration has engaged quietly with Pahlavi, with envoy Steve Witkoff holding talks, while President Trump publicly encouraged protesters and kept military options open amid reports of a harsh crackdown and rising casualties.