Reza Pahlavi, an Iranian dissident, called on the global community to increase pressure on the Iranian government for supporting protestors in their bid to overthrow clerical rule. Pahlavi, the son of the deposed Iranian shah, made these remarks during a press briefing in Washington D.C. He emphasized the urgent need for political, economic, and military measures against Tehran.
Acknowledging the bravery of the demonstrators challenging the regime since late December, Pahlavi commended their resilience amid a severe crackdown triggered by economic hardships. He highlighted the significant threat posed to the clerical regime by the ongoing protests, which mark a significant challenge to the ruling establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Pahlavi has actively supported the protestors, and his influence has been evident even in demonstrations outside Iran, including in Canada. He suggested that the regime’s aggressive response to the protests indicates its vulnerability to collapse. Pahlavi claimed to have garnered support from key factions within the Iranian military and security apparatus, positioning himself as a potential leader for a stable transition in the country.
In a nod to U.S. President Donald Trump’s stance on Iran, Pahlavi commended Trump’s support for the protestors, refraining from confirming direct communication with the U.S. administration. He expressed optimism about the prospect of establishing “Cyrus Accords,” drawing parallels to Trump’s previous diplomatic achievements in the Middle East.
Despite doubts raised by some, including President Trump, regarding his leadership acceptance in Iran, Pahlavi reiterated his unwavering commitment to democracy. He urged the international community to align fully with the Iranian people in their pursuit of change.
Proposing a comprehensive six-point plan, Pahlavi advocated for targeting the Iranian Revolutionary Guard leadership, imposing stringent economic sanctions, and utilizing technology like Starlink to counter the regime’s internet shutdown tactics. He called for the expulsion of Iranian diplomats, release of political prisoners, and eventual recognition of a transitional government by Western nations.
As tensions escalate in Iran, the White House disclosed President Trump’s close monitoring of the situation and his warning against further crackdowns that may result in severe consequences. Conversely, a leading cleric in Iran demanded harsh penalties, including the death penalty, for protestors, attributing the unrest to foreign influences.
While reports indicate a temporary lull in protests following a deadly crackdown, sporadic incidents of unrest persist in various regions. Amid the turmoil, Russia affirmed its partnership with Iran and expressed readiness to mediate in the escalating situation, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and continued cooperation between the two nations.
