As tensions rise following escalating conflict involving Iran, mixed messages are being directed at the Iranian public about whether they should challenge their government.
During the conflict, former US President Donald Trump urged Iranians to rise up and take control of their country, claiming the moment could represent a rare opportunity for political change. The call came after US military strikes reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, further intensifying the crisis.
However, inside Iran, authorities have issued stern warnings against any protests or public demonstrations. Ahmadreza Radan, Iran’s police chief, said security forces would treat anyone taking to the streets at what he described as the “enemy’s request” as an adversary of the state.
He warned that police and security units were fully prepared to act against unrest, emphasizing that the country’s forces were ready to defend the Islamic Republic and maintain stability.
Messages on Iranian state media have also reinforced the warning. A presenter on Channel Three Iran cautioned government opponents that authorities would pursue anyone involved in protests once the conflict subsides, even those living abroad. The statement suggested punishments could include property confiscation and legal action against family members.
Earlier in March, the office of Iran’s prosecutor general released a statement warning Iranians overseas that cooperation with countries considered hostile—particularly Israel or the United States—could lead to severe penalties. Officials cited laws targeting espionage and collaboration with foreign adversaries, which may carry punishments including the death penalty.
Human rights groups say such warnings highlight the serious risks faced by people who protest in Iran. During earlier waves of anti-government demonstrations, thousands of protesters were reportedly killed in crackdowns by security forces, according to advocacy organizations.
Meanwhile, voices outside the country have continued encouraging Iranians to push for political change. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last monarch, called on citizens to prepare for what he described as a decisive moment.
In a video message, he advised people to secure essential supplies and maintain strikes while avoiding large gatherings for safety. Pahlavi also urged members of Iran’s military and security forces to distance themselves from the government and side with the public.
At the same time, the security atmosphere inside the country has tightened. Reports indicate checkpoints have appeared across parts of Tehran, while internet access has been restricted.
Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency reported that several security checkpoints in the capital were targeted by drone strikes allegedly linked to Israel, killing a number of personnel. The report suggested the attacks were intended to weaken security presence and potentially spark unrest.
Amid the escalating conflict, Benjamin Netanyahu has also addressed the Iranian population, saying Israel aims to create conditions that could allow Iranians to “take their destiny into their own hands.”
The contrasting messages—from authorities warning against dissent and outside figures encouraging resistance—illustrate the intense pressure facing people inside Iran as the conflict deepens.
With military strikes continuing and tensions rising across the region, many Iranians are left weighing the risks of political action while uncertainty about the country’s future grows.
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