Iran’s last shah’s son, Reza Pahlavi, has emerged as a key figure fueling the recent major anti-government protests, despite residing outside Iran since the late 1970s. Iranian state media has depicted Pahlavi as disconnected and corrupt, but he has utilized social media videos and Farsi-language news outlets like Iran International to amplify his support for protests and denounce repression. In a televised interview with CBS News, Pahlavi urged U.S. President Donald Trump to assist Iranian protestors, emphasizing the need for prompt action.
While Trump has expressed solidarity with Iranians facing violence from security forces, he has hesitated about meeting Pahlavi. The exiled prince clarified in the CBS interview that he did not incite people to protest but rather responded to their plea for external advocacy to ensure the success of the uprising.
Pahlavi, 65, aims for a ‘secular, democratic’ Iran, although gauging his popularity within Iran remains challenging due to his prolonged absence. Some demonstrators have voiced support for him, chanting “Long live the shah” in circulated videos. Amid calls for political reform and economic recovery, Pahlavi’s appeal lies in offering an alternative to the current clerical regime.
Having championed change during past periods of unrest, Pahlavi’s vision includes a constitutional monarchy that empowers Iranians to decide their governance structure. Despite government censorship blocking his messages, Pahlavi remains committed to leading a transition towards a secular, democratic Iran, emphasizing peace and popular sovereignty.
Born into royalty in 1960, Pahlavi’s early years symbolized the opulence of the monarchy, which contrasted sharply with the populace’s struggles under the shah’s reign. Departing Iran in 1978, Pahlavi’s role as shah was declared by the royal court after his father’s demise, marking a pivotal moment in his exile.
Pahlavi’s endeavors for reform have garnered support among the Iranian diaspora, including those in the U.S., where he resides with his family. Despite advocating for decisive actions against Iran’s leadership and receiving international attention, Pahlavi faces limited backing from Western governments, signaling a complex diplomatic landscape surrounding Iran’s political future.