Following the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and recent unrest, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) announced the formation of a provisional government on February 28, 2026, with the stated goal of transferring sovereignty to the Iranian people.
A Provisional Government is Declared
The NCRI’s move is based on President-elect Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, which advocates for a secular, democratic, and non-nuclear republic. Key tenets of the plan include gender equality, separation of religion and state, free elections, and peaceful coexistence. Mrs. Rajavi urged Iranians to protect civilians, unite against both the current clerical regime and any potential monarchical restoration, and support Resistance Units.
The announcement has garnered endorsements from a diverse group of international figures, including former officials and parliamentarians, many of whom shared their support on X (formerly Twitter). This response signals a desire for a people-led change in Iran and a rejection of both theocratic and monarchical rule.
International Reactions
Among those voicing support, former Canadian Foreign Minister John Baird praised Rajavi as “a very brave and courageous woman” and emphasized the importance of her ten-point framework. Former Canadian Conservative leader Candice Bergen expressed hope for Iranians to freely choose their government. Edita Tahiri, former Kosovo Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, fully endorsed the transfer of sovereignty to the people under Rajavi’s leadership. Alejo Vidal-Quadras, a former European Parliament Vice-President, called for a widespread uprising to support the interim government.
U.S.-based voices also weighed in, with Rudy Giuliani criticizing Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Shah, arguing he lacks support within Iran and a return to monarchy would be detrimental. Kyle Olson shared details from an interview with Mrs. Rajavi outlining the pillars of her plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan?
The Ten-Point Plan, as presented by President-elect Maryam Rajavi, calls for a secular, democratic, and non-nuclear republic in Iran, emphasizing gender equality, separation of religion and state, free elections, and peaceful regional coexistence.
Who is Maryam Rajavi?
Maryam Rajavi is the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and leader of the People’s Mujahedin of Iran (MEK). She was born on December 4, 1953, in Tehran.
What was the reaction to the announcement of the provisional government?
The announcement drew swift endorsements from a diverse array of international figures, former officials, parliamentarians, and Iranian diaspora voices, many of whom shared their support on X.
Given the current instability, it remains to be seen how the NCRI’s provisional government will be able to exert influence within Iran, or what challenges it may face in attempting to establish a new political order.
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