Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s exiled Crown Prince and son of the last Shah, claims the Islamic Republic is collapsing. He’s calling for a nationwide uprising to end the regime’s 46-year rule and bring democracy to Iran. But can his bold vision succeed, or is it just exile politics? Here’s a clear look at what’s happening.
Who Is Reza Pahlavi?
Reza Pahlavi, now 64, has lived in the U.S. since the 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew his father’s monarchy. He’s a vocal advocate for a secular, democratic Iran. Recently, he’s been using social media and interviews, like one with Manoto TV, to rally support. On June 19, 2025, he posted on X: “Sources in Iran say the regime’s control is falling apart fast. The world is starting to see the Islamic Republic has no future. Talks about a new Iran have begun.”
Pahlavi urges Iranians—from cities like Bandar Abbas to Isfahan—to rise up peacefully. He also calls on soldiers, police, and government workers to defect and join the people, saying he’s received messages of support from Iran’s military.
Why Now? Iran’s Growing Problems
Iran is facing serious challenges, making Pahlavi’s claims timely:
- Economic Crisis: The rial has crashed, inflation is sky-high, and sanctions have hurt the economy. Many Iranians can’t afford basics.
- Protests: Anger over corruption and human rights abuses has sparked protests, like those since 2009, with chants like “Down with the dictator” in Tehran and Shiraz. Some even mention Pahlavi, seeing the old monarchy as a better time.
- Regional Conflict: Since June 13, 2025, Israel has bombed Iranian targets, weakening the regime’s military. Iran’s support for groups like Hezbollah drains funds needed at home.
Pahlavi says the regime has wasted billions on nuclear programs and wars while Iranians suffer.
Are Soldiers Really Defecting?
Pahlavi claims Iranian military officers are contacting him, ready to leave the regime and support the people. He told Manoto TV about “intense communications” with army members. However, there’s no solid proof yet. Experts say the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), loyal to the regime, is still strong, though some soldiers may be unhappy due to economic issues.
Pahlavi also says Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is “hiding underground” and losing control. Khamenei has made fewer public appearances, but there’s no evidence he’s in hiding. Some say Pahlavi exaggerates to boost his cause.
The Bigger Picture: Israel, the U.S., and Iran
Pahlavi’s call comes amid tensions with Israel. He supports Israel’s strikes on IRGC targets, saying they hit “Khamenei’s regime,” not Iran. This has stirred debate. Critics, like Tehran analyst Mohammad Khatibi, call him a “Netanyahu lapdog,” saying his 2023 visit to Jerusalem, where he met Israel’s Prime Minister, makes Iranians suspicious of foreign meddling.
The U.S. may see Pahlavi as a future leader if the regime falls, but his father’s ties to a 1953 CIA-backed coup hurt his image. Many Iranians, especially younger ones, don’t trust him or prefer local protest leaders over exile figures.
Why Pahlavi’s Plan Faces Hurdles
Pahlavi’s dream of a democratic Iran sounds good, but it’s tough to achieve:
- Regime’s Strength: The IRGC and Basij militia can crush protests violently.
- Limited Support: Pahlavi is known, especially among older Iranians, but many young people back grassroots movements, not him. Other groups, like the Mujahedin-e-Khalq (MEK), also compete but lack popularity.
- Past Baggage: Pahlavi doesn’t fully address his father’s harsh rule, including the SAVAK secret police. A U.S. lawsuit by former prisoners accuses him of past crimes, hurting his reputation.
There’s no unified opposition, making it hard for Pahlavi to lead change.
What’s Next? Hope or Just Talk?
Pahlavi’s call for an uprising has grabbed attention worldwide, but it’s unclear if it will change Iran. His talk of a “bright future” inspires some, especially in the diaspora, but the regime is still powerful. World leaders are discussing a post-Islamic Republic Iran, but these are early talks with no clear plan.
Right now, Pahlavi is a symbol of resistance, challenging the regime from afar. His success depends on uniting Iran’s opposition, gaining real support inside the country, and handling tricky regional politics. Is the Islamic Republic really collapsing, or is Pahlavi’s call a distant dream?
Last Updated on: Saturday, June 21, 2025 3:09 pm by K Nikhil | Published by: K Nikhil on Saturday, June 21, 2025 3:09 pm | News Categories: Politics
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