In an exclusive interview with Manoto TV on June 19, 2025, Prince Reza Pahlavi, the former heir to the Iranian throne, revealed that he has intensified direct communications with military personnel, particularly within the Iranian army. He stated that these forces have expressed their readiness to join the people in opposition to the current regime led by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Pahlavi also claimed that Khamenei is hiding in underground bunkers and called on the armed forces to support the people during this critical moment.
Geopolitical Context of Rising Tensions
These statements come amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Since June 13, 2025, Israel has launched a series of air and missile strikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites, resulting in significant destruction of the military leadership and the deaths of hundreds of senior commanders, according to multiple media reports. The Israeli operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” aims to halt the progress of Iran’s nuclear program.
In response, Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli targets, further intensifying the conflict and raising concerns about possible U.S. military intervention, adding pressure on the Iranian regime.
Internal Situation in Iran
Despite ongoing protests and unrest driven by economic and political grievances, there have been no confirmed reports of widespread military defections. Although the Iranian military leadership has suffered heavy losses, the army continues to show relative loyalty to the regime, according to several research analyses.
However, Prince Reza Pahlavi relies on direct contacts with some military personnel who may be inclined to support the popular opposition movement, suggesting potential shifts within the armed forces in the near future.
Analysis and Outlook
Pahlavi’s remarks reflect an optimistic view of possible military support for the opposition, based on his ongoing communications with certain officers. Nonetheless, the current reality indicates that the military’s loyalty to the regime remains intact, albeit under increasing internal and external pressures.
These developments coincide with rising social unrest, including truck drivers’ strikes and other protests, highlighting growing tensions within Iranian society that could impact the regime’s stability.
Summary
Amid continued Israeli strikes and the looming threat of broader military intervention, the Iranian situation remains volatile, with increasing chances of internal changes that could affect the regime’s future. Prince Reza Pahlavi’s statements serve as a vocal opposition call aiming to galvanize both military and popular support, but the ground situation remains cautious and uncertain.
Recent Key Events Summary
Event | Details | Source |
---|---|---|
Interview with Prince Reza Pahlavi | Announcement of military readiness to join the people and support the opposition movement | X post by ManotoNews |
Israeli Strikes on Iran | Targeting military and nuclear sites, destruction of military leadership, hundreds killed | Reuters News |
Internal Situation in Iran | Protests and unrest but no widespread military defections reported | New Lines Institute |
The Iranian crisis remains at the heart of a complex regional conflict where military, political, and social factors intertwine, leaving future developments open to multiple possibilities.