Reza Pahlavi Calls for Democratic Iran in 'Berlin Wall Moment' Speech

In a powerful address from Paris, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled prince of Iran and son of the last shah, has declared the Islamic Republic on the brink of collapse, calling this a pivotal 'Berlin Wall moment' for his nation. With reports suggesting Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other regime officials are preparing to flee, Pahlavi painted a picture of a fractured military, a united populace, and a tyranny teetering after 46 years.

Pahlavi didn’t mince words, accusing Khamenei of cowering in a bunker while using the Iranian people as human shields amid recent U.S. strikes on nuclear sites in Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. He condemned the regime’s actions as the root of ongoing chaos, from the explosions in Isfahan to the fires along the Persian Gulf, urging Khamenei to step down with the promise of a fair trial—something, he noted, the ayatollah has never afforded his own people.

Offering himself as a leader for a peaceful, democratic transition, Pahlavi emphasized he seeks no political power but aims to guide Iran toward stability and justice. He warned the West against propping up the current regime, arguing it would only fuel more bloodshed and global instability. His vision? A secular, democratic Iran built on territorial integrity, individual freedoms, and the separation of religion and state.

Among his bold initiatives, Pahlavi announced a secure platform for military and security personnel to defect and join his movement, signaling a growing wave of dissent within the regime’s ranks. He also proposed a national unity summit to chart a democratic roadmap, with the ultimate form of governance to be decided by referendum. On the economic front, he’s rallying global investors and experts to rebuild Iran, promising a detailed plan for the first 100 days post-regime.

While acknowledging the destruction of nuclear facilities as a setback for the regime, Pahlavi cautioned that their intent to acquire weapons remains, potentially through rogue states like North Korea. His message is clear: only the regime’s complete downfall will secure lasting peace for Iran and the world.