Exiled Shah's Son Appeals to Trump During Munich Security Conference
The exiled son of Iran's last monarch has made a direct appeal to American leadership while addressing international security officials in Germany. Reza Pahlavi, who has lived outside Iran since before the 1979 Islamic revolution, called on U.S. President Donald Trump to provide tangible support to Iranian citizens protesting against their government.
Massive Rally Coincides with High-Level Security Talks
While Pahlavi spoke with reporters at the prestigious Munich Security Conference, approximately 200,000 of his supporters flooded nearby streets in a massive demonstration of opposition to Iran's current leadership. The timing was deliberate, with protesters hoping to capture the attention of world leaders gathered for the annual security forum.
The crowd waved distinctive green-white-and-red flags featuring the lion and sun emblem of the deposed Pahlavi monarchy while chanting "Javid shah" (long live the shah). The demonstration represented one of the largest gatherings of Iranian opposition supporters in recent years.
Trump's Comments Spark Hope Among Opposition
Pahlavi's appeal came just one day after President Trump declared that a change of government in Iran would be "the best thing that could happen." The American leader had previously deployed additional military assets to the Middle East, including a second aircraft carrier, increasing pressure on Tehran.
"To President Trump... The Iranian people heard you say help is on the way, and they have faith in you," Pahlavi stated during his Munich appearance. "Help them. It is time to end the Islamic republic."
Coordinated Protest Actions Planned
The exiled royal figure has encouraged continued demonstrations both within Iran and internationally. He specifically called for Iranians to chant anti-government slogans from their homes and rooftops at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, coordinating with protests occurring simultaneously in Germany and other locations worldwide.
This call to action follows violent government responses to nationwide protests that peaked in January. Human rights organizations estimate that thousands of Iranian citizens were killed during the crackdown, though official figures remain disputed.
Divisions Within Iranian Opposition Movement
Despite the show of unity in Munich, the Iranian opposition remains fragmented with various factions advocating different approaches to challenging the current regime. The Munich rally primarily attracted supporters of the former monarchy, while other opposition groups maintain different visions for Iran's political future.
One 62-year-old protester, who identified himself only as Said, expressed the frustration felt by many exiles: "The Iranian regime is a dead regime. It must be game over."
Broader Geopolitical Context
The Munich appeals occur against a backdrop of ongoing nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States. Representatives from both nations, who have maintained no formal diplomatic relations since 1979, recently held talks in Oman and are scheduled for further discussions in Geneva.
While Trump initially promised strong support for Iranian protesters, his administration has recently focused more intently on Tehran's nuclear program. This shift has created uncertainty about the level of support opposition groups can expect from Washington.
Verified videos circulating this week show that despite continued government repression, some Iranians continue to voice dissent even during official celebrations marking the anniversary of the Islamic revolution.
