Monday, January 19, 2026

What Level of Support Does the Exiled Son of Iran's Former Shah Enjoy in Iran Today? | DW News

Jan 19, 2026 | Hackers disrupted several Iranian state television channels and used them to broadcast messages of support for the country's exiled crown prince. Shared online videos show two clips of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and a message calling on security forces to not "point your weapons at the people." The hacking occurred amid a crackdown by Iranian authorities on widespread anti-government protests. Thousands of demonstrators have been killed in recent weeks, and an internet blackout is currently in place.