Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, addressed Iranian armed and security forces in a direct video message, urging them to defect from the collapsing regime and take active measures to protect protesters. The three-minute message, shared amid widespread January 2026 demonstrations, highlights the growing momentum of civil unrest, including bazaar strikes and coordinated chants across multiple cities.

In the video, Pahlavi emphasized that thousands of personnel have already registered on his National Cooperation Platform, a framework designed to support a peaceful transition to democracy. The initiative allows security and military personnel to register in real-time via QR codes broadcast during Iran International transmissions, ensuring secure communication and the protection of defectors.

The former crown prince’s message underscores a strategy that prioritizes safeguarding lives over punishing those loyal to the regime, offering incentives for personnel to join a democratic movement without fear of retribution. Analysts note that such appeals are unprecedented in scale, reflecting the intensity of nationwide protests and the regime’s vulnerability.

By directly addressing Iran’s armed and security forces, Pahlavi aims to create a critical shift within institutions traditionally seen as pillars of the regime. The initiative also signals a broader effort to coordinate democratic reform efforts with the active participation of those within the system, rather than relying solely on street protests.

Observers suggest that the combination of real-time registration, secure communications, and public messaging may accelerate defections and embolden protesters, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the ongoing uprising. As demonstrations continue across Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, and other cities, the effectiveness of this appeal could play a decisive role in determining Iran’s political trajectory.