Reza Pahlavi, the son and heir of the Iranian shah overthrown in 1979 during the Islamic Revolution, has called on remaining officials within the current Iranian regime to “surrender” and pledge their loyalty to him, positioning himself to lead the country.
A Call for Transition
Currently residing in the United States, Pahlavi has vowed that Iranians will overthrow what he calls the “demonic regime” of the Islamic Republic, believing it is “giving its last gasps” following the deaths of Iranian leaders attributed to actions by the United States, and Israel.
“My message to the officials who remain in this republic of terror is the following: Surrender to the Iranian nation. Declare your loyalty to my program and the transition system. And hand over the government without further bloodshed,” Pahlavi stated in a video and accompanying statement posted on X.
Pahlavi, who previously published an editorial in The Washington Post outlining his vision for a transitional role in Iran, intends to push for a latest constitution drafted and ratified by referendum, followed by free elections under international supervision.
He asserted that any attempt to appoint a successor to the recently deceased leader would be doomed to fail, stating that anyone placed in that position “will not only lack legitimacy, but will also be complicit in the crimes of this regime.”
Appeals to the Iranian People
Pahlavi urged the Iranian people to demonstrate their support for the overthrow of the Islamic Republic through nightly chants, although also calling on Iranians abroad to intensify their efforts to demand the regime’s collapse.
He also appealed to Iranian security forces to apply their weapons to protect Iranians from those defending the current leadership, rather than the other way around.
“My power comes from your power and your support,” Pahlavi emphasized, adding, “Stay vigilant. Be prepared. The moment for a massive and decisive presence in the streets is very near.”
Following the death of the supreme leader, Iran is currently being led by a provisional council comprised of the president, Masud Pezeshkian, the head of the Judiciary, Golamhosein Mohseni Eyei, and a member of the Council of Guardians, the ayatollah Alireza Arafi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Reza Pahlavi?
Reza Pahlavi is the son and heir of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last shah of Iran, who was overthrown in 1979 by the Islamic Revolution.
What is Reza Pahlavi calling for?
Reza Pahlavi is calling for the surrender of the current Iranian regime and for officials to declare their loyalty to him so he can lead the country.
What happened after the death of the supreme leader?
Following the death of the supreme leader, Iran is being led provisionally by a council consisting of the president, the head of the Judiciary, and a member of the Council of Guardians.
Given the current political climate, what challenges might Reza Pahlavi face in attempting to lead Iran?
