Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's former Shah, has called for the removal of Khamenei and the restoration of democracy. He described Israeli attacks as an opportunity for change and called for global support.
Iran: Iranian politics are once again experiencing significant upheaval. This unrest stems not from a statement by a current leader, but from Reza Shah Pahlavi, son of the former Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Pahlavi, who has lived in exile in the United States for several decades, is now openly speaking out against the current Islamic regime. He has explicitly stated that Iran needs a change in power and that "our time has come."
This statement comes at a time of heightened tension between Israel and Iran, and as international debate intensifies regarding Iran's role on the global stage. Pahlavi's call is viewed not merely as a political statement, but as the culmination of a long struggle.
The Islamic Revolution and the Overthrow of Power
The 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran shook the nation's political and social fabric. The revolution's primary goal was to end the West-supporting monarchy of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and establish an Islamic republic. The Shah was forced to flee the country, and Ayatollah Khomeini was declared the supreme religious and political leader.
Following Khomeini's death in 1989, Ali Khamenei succeeded him, despite not being a Grand Ayatollah at the time. Constitutional amendments were made to appoint him Supreme Leader. Khamenei remains in power today, his rule spanning over three decades.
Reza Shah Pahlavi: From Exile to Leadership
Following in his father's footsteps, Reza Shah Pahlavi has worked for many years to restore democracy in Iran. He founded the "National Council of Iran," an opposition organization aiming to end the Islamic Republic and reinstate a constitutional monarchy. He believes Iran needs a political framework with b democratic institutions and freedoms for its citizens.
Currently residing in the United States, he continues to advocate for change in Iran, engaging consistently with think tanks, policymakers, and media outlets. His stance aligns with the anti-Iran policies of countries like the United States and Israel.
Stance on Relations with Israel
Following recent Israeli attacks on Iran, Reza Shah Pahlavi clarified in a BBC interview that this conflict is with the Iranian regime, not the people. He stated that the Israeli attacks aimed not to harm Iranian citizens, but to weaken the current government and create an opportunity for change within the country.
Strategic Relationship with the United States
Pahlavi's policies align with the interests of the United States. He has appealed to the US government to impose stricter sanctions on the Islamic regime in Iran and to support the Iranian people. He believes the international community should actively support the restoration of democracy in Iran, rather than remaining passive.
A 40-Year Struggle for Democracy
Reza Shah Pahlavi states that for the past 40 years, he has striven for a single objective: the return of democracy to Iran. He believes the current regime disregards the freedom, dignity, and future of its citizens, using them merely as instruments. He appeals to the citizens to cease cooperation with this regime and take decisive steps towards the country's liberation.
