Tehran, Iran – In a significant escalation, Prince Reza Pahlavi, a prominent figure in the Iranian opposition, addressed the Iranian people in a video message on Friday night, January 9, 2026. He called for paralyzing the regime through a nationwide general strike and for taking control of city centers. This call comes amidst widespread public discontent. Pahlavi urged Iranians to take to the streets en masse on Saturday and Sunday (January 10 and 11), describing the recent protests as a “harsh response” that has shaken the foundations of the regime.
Key points of the “decisive” strategy in Pahlavi’s message:
Economic disobedience: Workers in vital sectors, particularly oil, gas, energy, and transportation, have called for an immediate work stoppage. The aim is to sever the financial lifelines upon which the government depends.
The shift from protesting to controlling
Pahlavi emphasized that the next objective was “to seize and defend city centers.” He urged protesters to stock up on supplies and basic necessities to ensure their continued presence in the squares for extended periods.
Neutralizing the security forces: He addressed members of the armed forces and the “Eternal Guard” who had joined the “National Cooperation Platform.” He called on them to disrupt the machinery of repression and slow down the execution of orders. The goal was to paralyze the regime from within.
National identity: He urged the public to raise national flags and symbols at the gatherings, which were scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM.
“The return is imminent.”
Prince Pahlavi concluded his message on an optimistic note, affirming his readiness to return to Iran as soon as the revolution triumphs. He said, “I am preparing to return to my homeland to be with you when the revolution triumphs, and I believe that day is very near.”
International political circles are watching closely to see how the Iranian public will respond to this call. This comes amid reports of heightened security measures in the capital, Tehran, and other major cities.
