The son of Iran’s former shah is actively supporting protesters in the country’s recent anti-government demonstrations, despite living outside Iran since the late 1970s. Reza Pahlavi, criticized by Iranian state media, uses social media and news channels like Iran International to amplify his calls for protests and denounce repression. In a recent interview with CBS News, Pahlavi appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump for intervention to assist Iranian protesters.
Pahlavi emphasized that he did not incite people to protest but rather responded to their pleas for support against the regime. He acknowledged the risks involved in their struggle, referring to it as a form of war. Pahlavi advocates for a secular and democratic Iran, expressing his willingness to lead a transition towards peace and democracy in the country.
While it is challenging to assess Pahlavi’s popularity within Iran, some demonstrators have expressed support for him through social media videos and chants in favor of the monarchy. Amid widespread demands for political change and economic reforms, Pahlavi’s messages, although blocked in Iran, resonate with those seeking an end to the current regime. Pahlavi has proposed a constitutional monarchy with an elected ruler, leaving the decision to the Iranian people.
Born in 1960, Pahlavi was declared crown prince in 1967 but left Iran in 1978, eventually assuming the role of shah in exile in 1980. Despite offering to serve during the Iran-Iraq war and pursuing political science studies, Pahlavi’s efforts to garner international support have faced challenges, especially from Western governments. He has highlighted the need for further actions to assist the Iranian people, supporting strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities while advocating for a secular and democratic future for the country.