What's happened
Exiled Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi claims loyalty from parts of Iran's military and urges international support to break the regime's communication blockade amid ongoing protests. U.S. President Trump questions Pahlavi's leadership potential and considers regime collapse possibilities, amid a complex geopolitical landscape.
What's behind the headline?
The current situation underscores the fragile state of Iran's regime, with protests gaining momentum and some military factions reportedly sympathetic to Pahlavi. Trump's mixed signals—threatening support but expressing doubts—highlight the geopolitical gamble of intervening in Iran's internal affairs. Pahlavi's call for international aid, including satellite internet deployment, aims to empower protesters without direct military intervention, but his actual support base inside Iran remains unclear. The potential for regime collapse is real, yet the outcome hinges on internal military loyalties and regional diplomacy. The U.S. faces a delicate balance between backing opposition figures and avoiding escalation that could destabilize the region further.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports Pahlavi's claims of military loyalty and his appeal for satellite internet support. Politico highlights Pahlavi's efforts to garner U.S. backing and Trump's cautious stance, emphasizing the uncertain support for Pahlavi within Iran. Reuters details Trump's doubts about Pahlavi's leadership and the broader geopolitical context, including regional opposition to military intervention. The Times of Israel notes Trump's comments on regime collapse possibilities and his skepticism about Pahlavi's prospects, reflecting the complex U.S.-Iran dynamic amid ongoing protests. Al Jazeera provides insight into the Iranian government's internet shutdown and Pahlavi's calls for demonstrations, illustrating the regime's efforts to suppress dissent and the opposition's resilience.
How we got here
The protests in Iran began last month, triggered by economic hardship and political repression, leading to widespread unrest. Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah, has called for a democratic transition and has gained some support among protesters, though his influence remains uncertain. The U.S. has shown interest in supporting regime change but remains cautious amid regional and diplomatic considerations.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Did Trump Say About Iran's Regime Collapse?
Recent statements by former President Donald Trump have sparked interest in Iran's ongoing protests and the possibility of regime change. Many wonder what Trump has said about Iran's political future, the protests' impact on regional stability, and whether Iran's government could actually fall. Below, we explore these questions and more to give you a clear understanding of the current situation and US stance on Iran.
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Who Supports Iran’s Protests and What’s Their Goal?
Iran’s ongoing protests have drawn international attention, with various figures and countries taking different stances. Understanding who is backing the protesters, what role exiled leaders like Reza Pahlavi play, and how global powers view the unrest can help clarify the complex situation. Below, we explore key questions about Iran’s protests, international influence, and potential outcomes.
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Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a