Reza Pahlavi Warns: Uprising Needs Right Timing

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi said the collapse of Iran’s regime is approaching, but warned that any mass uprising must be carefully timed to avoid a violent crackdown. In an interview, Pahlavi said a “final call” for nationwide protests is getting closer, though he stressed that the regime remains willing to use extreme force to stay in power. “The movement must proceed intelligently,” he said, adding that authorities have “no hesitation in suppressing people” and could be prepared to kill large numbers if threatened.

Pahlavi argued that growing pressure on the regime is being driven by a combination of internal opposition and sustained military action by the United States and Israel. He said strikes on institutions such as the Revolutionary Guard and Basij are weakening the regime’s grip, while organized networks in Iran are carrying out coordinated efforts to undermine it from within. According to him, recent developments inside the country are not spontaneous but the result of structured opposition activity.

At the same time, Pahlavi outlined a plan for the period after a potential collapse, known as the “Prosperity Project,” which aims to prepare governance structures in advance. The initiative brings together experts in law, economics, healthcare and education to plan for stabilizing the country. He said existing state institutions, including parts of the military and civil service, may need to be preserved temporarily to maintain order during a transition, provided individuals are not implicated in violence against civilians.

Pahlavi also appealed directly to members of Iran’s security forces, urging them to distance themselves from the regime while they still can. He warned that those who continue supporting the system would eventually be held accountable, while those who defect could play a role in rebuilding the country. He added that he intends to return to Iran as soon as conditions allow, even before a full regime collapse, suggesting his presence could accelerate defections.

According to his chief of staff, Pahlavi is in contact with figures inside Iran, including elements within the state bureaucracy, who may be prepared to break with the regime at a decisive moment. Supporters inside the country are said to be waiting for a clear signal before launching another wave of protests, with aides claiming that he retains broad public support and could serve as a unifying figure in a transition.

The remarks come as pressure on Iran’s leadership continues to mount, with ongoing US and Israeli strikes targeting senior officials and infrastructure, even as the regime insists publicly that it remains stable.