Reza Pahlavi, son of the last Shah of Iran, today declared his readiness to serve as an interim leader for the country, urging Western powers to fully support regime change in Iran. Pahlavi, often referred to by his supporters as the “Crown Prince of Iran,” has called on the international community to assist Iranians in removing the theocratic rule of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
A Call for International Backing and Internal Defections
In an interview with POLITICO in Paris on Monday, Pahlavi outlined his vision for transition. He suggested that dismantling the current regime would require both military action and practical support for opposition groups, including improved internet access, better communications, and backing for mass strikes.
He extended an amnesty to those within the state apparatus who defect and aid in the regime’s downfall, provided they commit to joining the people’s movement now. Pahlavi announced the creation of a “secure platform” for dissidents to coordinate efforts for a “free and democratic” society. “I am here today to submit myself to my compatriots to lead them down this road of peace,” Pahlavi stated at a press conference. “This is our moment. I am with you. Let us build this new Iran together.”
Seizing the Moment: War and Political Shift
Pahlavi, 64, has lived in exile since the 1979 Islamic revolution. Despite critics who oppose a return to monarchy, he commands a passionate base of monarchist support. He believes current circumstances present the best opportunity yet for regime change.
Severe international economic sanctions and mismanagement have plunged Iran into dire conditions, but it is Israel’s direct war, which began on June 13, and subsequent U.S. involvement that Pahlavi sees as a game-changer. While regime change isn’t an official war aim for Israel or the U.S., a shift in sentiment may be occurring. President Donald Trump recently posted on social media, suggesting, “if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime Change???”
Pahlavi believes targeted military action, including strikes on key figures and sites like Evin Prison, is bolstering public confidence that the dictatorship can be overthrown. “This specific targeting demonstrates that the war is not against the people but against the regime,” he said, suggesting it “expedites its collapse.” He optimistically stated that “the odds are very good” the regime will be gone by the end of the year.
Warning Against “Lifelines” and Future Plans
However, Pahlavi criticized world leaders, including those attending the NATO summit, for not yet offering clear, firm backing for regime change, which he believes is crucial to galvanize the Iranian people. He urged them not to “throw another lifeline to the regime” by pursuing de-escalation and diplomatic negotiations, which he views as “futile.” “You have negotiated long enough with this regime. It’s time that we invest in the Iranian people,” he asserted.
Looking to the future, Pahlavi promised fair treatment for those ousted and plans to integrate the “bulk” of the military, paramilitary forces, and civilian bureaucracy into a new government, aiming to avoid a “catastrophe” like Iraq’s post-Saddam “de-Baathification.” He emphasized the importance of these individuals “defecting now.”
Pahlavi envisions a constitutional conference to draft a new constitution, subject to a public referendum. He stated he would not decide on a restored monarchy, emphasizing that “democratic options should be on the table” and that all voices, regardless of political leaning, should have the chance to argue their case.
Despite the current crisis facing Iran’s leadership, Pahlavi faces significant challenges, including a deeply divided Iranian opposition and the unpredictable long-term impact of the ongoing bombardments on national sentiment. For many Iranians, immediate safety amidst the air raids remains the top priority.
