Protests that started in late December 2025 over economic hardship have swelled into demands for regime change, with videos smuggled via Starlink showing massive gatherings and attacks on regime symbols like Khomeini's mausoleum. Reza Pahlavi called for nationwide strikes in key sectors and mass rallies at 6 p.m. today and tomorrow in major cities, declaring victory near as he prepares to return. U.S. President Donald Trump voiced support, warning of retaliation against lethal force, while rights groups report 36 to 62 deaths and X updated its Iran flag emoji to the pre-1979 Lion and Sun emblem.
