Widespread protests in Iran, initially sparked by economic issues, have escalated into a nationwide uprising with a deadly crackdown by the regime. Exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi is encouraging the demonstrations and has appealed to US President Donald Trump for intervention, suggesting the US has "very strong options." Pahlavi advocates for decisive action against the current regime, while Iran has responded with threats of war and openness to diplomacy. The death toll among protesters and security forces has risen into the hundreds.