Reza Pahlavi’s Rising Influence: A New Force in Iranian Politics?
From his exile in California, following the fall of the Iranian monarchy, Reza Pahlavi has largely remained on the periphery of international politics. However, in recent years – and particularly in recent weeks – his profile has dramatically increased. He’s attracting a significant audience, gaining 3.4 million Instagram followers in a single month, reaching a current total of 9.5 million.
Calls for Regime Change and International Intervention
Pahlavi recently addressed the Munich Security Conference on February 13, 2026, where he once again urged the United States to intervene in Iran to overthrow the current regime, which he considers the primary “obstacle” between Iranians and freedom.
His growing influence is reflected in the chants of his name during protests within Iran, even as the Islamic Republic attempts to garner public support. During official celebrations marking the 46th anniversary of the 1979 Revolution on February 11, 2026, President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed “shame” over the repression of protests on January 8 and 9.
February 14th: A Day of Action
On February 2nd, Pahlavi issued a call on social media, inviting “Iranians abroad and freedom-loving people around the world” to “take to the streets and force the international community to take concrete and urgent action in support of the Iranian people.”
He has outlined six key demands:
- Dismantling the regime’s repressive apparatus
- Cutting off the regime’s financial resources
- Restoring internet access in Iran
- Expelling the regime’s “diplomats”
- Prosecuting regime officials
- Immediately releasing all political prisoners
- Preparing for the recognition of a “legitimate transitional government” to lead Iran towards democracy
Pahlavi designated Los Angeles, Toronto, and Munich as key gathering points for participants. The timing of this call to action, coinciding with the Munich Security Conference, is likely deliberate.
The Lion and Sun Symbol: A Resurgence
In January, during the World Economic Forum in Davos, protestors displayed flags bearing the lion and sun emblem – the flag of Iran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. This symbol is now sparking debate within Iran, indicating that Pahlavi’s increasing popularity is challenging long-held taboos of the Islamic Republic.
Ali Akbar Salehi, a prominent figure in the Iranian state and former head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (2013-2021), asserted that the lion and sun symbol “belonged to the Islamic Republic,” despite its use by supporters of a potential monarchical restoration.
A moderate Iranian newspaper even featured the symbol on its front page with the headline “Both National and Religious,” a move that drew criticism from conservative media outlets.
The Broader Geopolitical Context
Pahlavi’s rising prominence coincides with a growing rejection of negotiations with the Islamic Republic. His call to action aims to increase pressure on Tehran, particularly as the prospect of U.S. Military intervention appears to diminish. Former President Trump recently described ongoing talks in Oman between U.S. And Iranian representatives as “very good,” stating that “Iran seems willing to make a deal at any cost.”
On February 12, 2026, the U.S. President warned Iran of “very traumatic consequences” if negotiations fail, emphasizing the demand for an agreement. Senator Lindsey Graham, speaking in Munich, stated that President Trump could be relied upon to fulfill his promise to support Iranian protestors “through diplomacy or military force,” adding that “if they don’t realize we are at a historic moment, they are missing a lot; we are talking weeks, not months. And when we do, if we do, we will start and we will not stop.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Reza Pahlavi? He is the son of the last Shah of Iran and a prominent figure in the Iranian diaspora advocating for regime change.
- What is his current level of support? He has a significant following on social media, with over 9.5 million followers on Instagram.
- What is his main demand? He calls for international intervention to overthrow the current Iranian regime and establish a democratic government.
- What is the significance of the lion and sun symbol? It is the historical flag of Iran before the 1979 revolution and its resurgence represents a challenge to the current regime.
Pro Tip: Follow Reza Pahlavi’s official Instagram account for the latest updates and insights into his activities: https://www.instagram.com/officialrezapahlavi/
Did you know? The symbol of the lion and sun, once a national emblem, is now a focal point of debate within Iran, highlighting the growing appeal of a potential return to a pre-revolutionary identity.
What are your thoughts on the evolving political landscape in Iran? Share your opinions in the comments below!
