Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah and a prominent opposition figure living in exile, has urged Iranians to prepare for political change following reported US and Israeli strikes on targets inside Iran.
In a statement posted on social media platform X on Saturday, Pahlavi described the developments as a critical moment for the country and said international actions, which he characterised as support for the Iranian people, could create conditions for political transition.
His remarks came after US President Donald Trump announced that Washington was targeting multiple locations in Iran, alongside Israeli military operations, according to media reports.
Pahlavi framed the military campaign as directed at what he called the “apparatus of repression” of the Islamic Republic rather than at the Iranian population.
He urged members of Iran’s military, law enforcement and security institutions to align themselves with citizens instead of the ruling establishment.
He called for unity between state institutions and the public to facilitate what he described as a peaceful and stable transition, warning that continued loyalty to the current system would isolate security forces from the broader society.
Addressing US leadership, Pahlavi urged caution to minimise civilian casualties and stressed the importance of protecting civilian lives during military operations.
He also advised Iranians to remain cautious amid uncertainty, saying communication channels would be used to update supporters about future political actions.
In the event of internet disruptions, he suggested alternative communication methods could be utilised.
Pahlavi concluded by expressing optimism about what he described as a turning point for Iran and stated that he hoped to return to the country in the future to participate in rebuilding efforts.
