Tehran: Iran’s former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, living in exile, has called on anti-government protesters to continue demonstrations across Iran, saying the ruling establishment is facing an unprecedented collapse in its ability to suppress public resistance.

In a video message posted on X on Sunday, the 65-year-old son of the late Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi praised protesters for their persistence, claiming their actions have significantly eroded the regime’s security machinery.

"My compatriots, by your widespread and courageous presence in the streets across Iran for the third consecutive night, you have severely weakened Khamenei's repressive apparatus and his regime. Reliable reports have reached me indicating that the Islamic Republic is facing a severe shortage of mercenaries to confront the millions of people in the streets, and so far, many armed and security forces have left their workplaces or disobeyed orders to suppress the people," he said.

Pahlavi alleged that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei views the Iranian people as enemies, relying instead on loyalist forces to sustain his rule.

"What remains for Khamenei is a minority of violent mercenaries who, like their criminal leader, are non-Iranian and anti-Iranian, and consider you--the great nation of Iran--their enemy. Know that they will face consequences for their actions. While reiterating my second call for 6:00 PM today, Sunday (21 Dey), I ask all of you to go to the main streets of the cities in groups with your friends and family members; along the way, do not separate from one another or from the crowds of people; and do not take side streets that could endanger your lives," he said.

Also read: Is Ayatollah Khamenei fleeing? Reports reveal Iran’s Supreme Leader plan to seek asylum in Russia

He also assured demonstrators of global solidarity, singling out US President Donald Trump’s support.

"Know that you are not alone. Your compatriots around the world are proudly shouting your voice, and you will surely see images of their numerous and widespread presence on television screens. The world today stands with your national revolution and admires your courage. In particular, President Trump, as the leader of the free world, has closely observed your indescribable bravery and has declared that he is ready to help you," Pahlavi said.

Concluding his address, the exiled prince vowed that the movement would reclaim the country from the current regime.

"Do not abandon the streets. My heart is with you. I know that I will soon be by your side. We will take back Iran," he added.

Meanwhile, The New York Times reported that President Trump has recently been briefed on a range of military options targeting Iran. According to the report, proposals include targeted strikes on select sites in Tehran, including non-military infrastructure linked to the regime’s internal security apparatus, as part of contingency planning to deter further violence by Iranian authorities.

The protests, now continuing for over two weeks, began on December 28 following the collapse of Iran’s national currency, the rial. Demonstrations have since spread across multiple cities, with authorities tightening security measures.

Also read: What’s driving Iran’s protests and why authorities cut internet and phone access across the country

Iranian officials have blamed foreign interference for escalating unrest. Tasnim News Agency quoted the spokesperson for Iran’s Constitutional Council as saying that foreign actors exploited peaceful protests to destabilise national security.

The Khamenei-led government has accused the United States of fuelling the unrest. Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, wrote to the UN alleging that Washington bears direct responsibility for "riots and violent acts" in Iran.

He condemned what he described as US coordination with Israel to interfere in Iran’s internal affairs through "threats, incitement, and deliberate encouragement of violence," aimed at undermining the country’s stability.

Separately, Iran’s army issued a statement warning that the “aggressive and evil US government” is plotting to regain dominance over the Iranian people, according to Tasnim News Agency.ANI