Reza Pahlavi claimed an Israeli strike on Tehran signaled Iran’s regime collapse, urging uprising amid U.S. efforts to overthrow it.

On February 28, 2026, Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s late shah, claimed the Islamic Republic’s end was near following a reported Israeli preemptive strike on Tehran that caused explosions and smoke. In a video message, he urged Iranians to prepare for a final push toward democracy, citing coordination with U.S. and Israeli actions. The strike followed a major government crackdown that killed thousands during a recent uprising. The U.S. stated its goal is to dismantle Iran’s military and overthrow the regime, acknowledging possible American casualties. Pahlavi’s call for resistance comes amid heightened regional tensions, though his leadership is not universally supported among opposition groups.