Overview
- At a Washington press conference, the exiled opposition figure said the Islamic Republic will fall and urged precise attacks on the Revolutionary Guard command structure.
- Human-rights groups report thousands of protesters killed in the crackdown, with other tallies ranging from more than 600 to over 2,500 fatalities.
- Protesters have continued large demonstrations in Tehran and other cities despite lethal force by security units.
- Pahlavi says elements within police and military have signaled willingness to cooperate, though his leadership claim remains contested by opposition critics.
- Experts note the IRGC was built to prevent coups and controls major economic assets, as President Donald Trump’s rhetoric has included possible military options and a public thanks for halted executions.