As protests continue to sweep across Iran, the son of the country’s former pro-Western monarch, Reza Pahlavi, has boldly predicted the imminent collapse of the Islamic regime and declared himself uniquely positioned to lead the transition to a new government.
Speaking from Washington, Pahlavi called on the international community to provide “targeted support” to the Iranian people, who he says are taking “decisive action on the ground.” While he stopped short of explicitly stating his intention to re-establish a monarchy, Pahlavi emphasised his “comprehensive plan for an orderly transition” and the “bond” between himself and the Iranian people.
Pahlavi’s claims come amid a brutal crackdown by security forces, which he says have killed some 12,000 protesters over the past 48 hours. Human rights groups have confirmed a lower but still staggering death toll, with thousands killed since the protests began in late December.
Despite having not set foot in Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution that overthrew his family’s monarchy, Pahlavi believes he is “uniquely positioned to ensure a stable transition.” He alleges that large segments of the security forces have already refused to fire on the population and “whispered their loyalty” to him.
However, Pahlavi’s bid for leadership is certain to face significant challenges. Many question the extent of his popular support, given his long exile, and other opponents of the regime are likely to contest his claim to the mantle of leadership.
Nonetheless, Pahlavi remains undeterred, calling on the West to take “resolute, targeted support” to “hasten the collapse” of the Islamic regime, which he insists will fall with or without such assistance. As the situation in Iran continues to unfold, the exiled prince’s declaration is sure to add further complexity to the country’s turbulent political landscape.
