US President Donald Trump, as he launched an attack on Iran with Israel, addressed Iranians, calling on them to seize the opportunity to overthrow the regime, but this may turn out to be almost impossible, writes the BBC.
Over the past two weeks, Iranians have received conflicting messages about the consequences of their actions. Encouragement is being given from outside to overthrow the regime, while information from inside the country indicates that the presence of security forces and police on the streets has increased, and officials of the Islamic Republic have warned against holding gatherings and protests.
At the beginning of the second week of March, the head of Iran’s police force, Ahmadreza Radan, warned that his forces would treat anyone who took to the streets at the instigation of the enemy as an enemy. The police force is said to be ready to defend the revolution. Meanwhile, a presenter on state-run Channel 3 addressed opponents of the Islamic Republic and those who might protest against the government, saying that when the dust settles, the state will come after them. In that case, property confiscation would be the least that could happen – both opponents of the regime and their families would have to pay for what they did, regardless of their location.
Iran’s Prosecutor General’s Office issued a statement on the 8th of March warning Iranians living abroad that they would face severe punishment if they collaborated with enemies. Citing Iranian law, the statement said that any operational activities, cooperation in intelligence, or espionage on behalf of hostile states is punishable not only by property confiscation, but also by the death penalty.
The threat is a stark reminder of the dangers facing Iranians who choose to protest against the government.
At least 7,000 Iranians were killed in a brutal crackdown by government forces on protests in December and January.
Meanwhile, calls are coming from abroad for Iranians to rise up against the government at a time when the religious establishment is at a fragile point. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, has called on Iranians to stock up on basic necessities and wait for a call to revolt. He said in a video message that for now, Iranians should stay home for their safety, continue to strike and refuse to go to work. Pahlavi also addressed the Iranian army and security forces, indicating that this is their last chance to free themselves from their oppressors and join the people.
As Pahlavi talks about preparing to overthrow the regime, the atmosphere in Iran is becoming increasingly tense. Internet shutdowns continue, and checkpoints have been set up on many streets.
As the strikes on Iran continue, concerns about civilian casualties and rising tensions across the region are growing.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also addressed the Iranian people, saying that Israel will create the conditions for them to be able to shape their own future.
The conflicting messages highlight the immense pressure that is weighing on Iran as the conflict escalates. Authorities threaten to crack down on protests, while calls for an uprising are coming from abroad.
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