7 hours ago
Last Updated:January 11, 2026, 15:04 IST
Iran’s former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is in exile, urged protesters to stay on the streets. In a video message posted on X, he praised demonstrators for their courage.
News18
Israel has moved to a high-alert mode amid fears of possible US intervention in Iran, as the country faces its largest wave of anti-government protests in years, according to Israeli sources. The alert follows repeated warnings from US President Donald Trump, who has openly cautioned Iran’s leadership against using force on protesters.
Sources familiar with Israeli security discussions said authorities are closely tracking developments, though they did not specify what the heightened alert involves. The situation remains sensitive, especially after Israel and Iran were involved in a 12-day conflict in June, during which the United States joined Israel in carrying out airstrikes.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the situation during a phone call on Saturday. A US official confirmed the call but did not share details of the discussion.
Trump Warns Iran, Offers Support To Protesters
US President Donald Trump has issued strong statements in support of Iranian protesters. In a post on Truth Social on Saturday, he said, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!"
Trump has repeatedly warned Iran’s rulers against using violence. Earlier, he said the US was closely monitoring the situation and made clear that any killing of protesters would draw a response.
“If they start killing people like they have in the past, we will get involved. We will be hitting them very hard where it hurts," he said, adding, “I just hope the protestors in Iran are going to be safe because it is a very dangerous place right now."
He also reshared comments by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who praised US support for Iranian protesters and criticised Iran’s leadership, saying the regime’s actions “will not go unchallenged."
Reza Pahlavi Calls For Protests To Continue
Iran’s former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is in exile, urged protesters to stay on the streets. In a video message posted on X, he praised demonstrators for their courage and said their actions were weakening the regime’s grip.
“My compatriots, By your widespread and courageous presence in the streets across Iran for the third consecutive night, you have severely weakened Khamenei’s repressive apparatus and his regime," Pahlavi said. He added that reports suggest security forces are struggling to respond, with some refusing orders to suppress protests.
Pahlavi also said protesters are receiving global attention, particularly from President Trump, which he described as encouraging for those demonstrating inside Iran.
Protests Spread, Global Focus Grows
The protests, which began over economic grievances, have now turned into a direct challenge to Iran’s clerical leadership. Demonstrations have continued for several nights across multiple cities, drawing growing international attention and concern.
With Washington issuing strong warnings, Israel remaining alert, and opposition voices calling for sustained action, the situation in Iran remains tense and closely watched by the global community.
First Published:
January 11, 2026, 15:04 IST
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