By Abdul Rafay Afzal (Editor in Chief- The Advocate Post)
As the voices against Iran are rising from Israel and allies for the regime change, one name keeps coming up in the coverage: Reza Pahlavi, the Exiled Crown Prince of Pehalvi Dynasty (Now Iran) and the late Shah’s Eldest son. Formerly seen as a figurehead of the past, Pahlavi is increasingly seen as a leading figure who could one day serve as a unifying force against Iran’s fragmented opposition as per the West’s ideology.
But who is Reza Pahlavi, and does he stand any chance of shaping the future of Iran? Here’s what you need to know.
Who Is Reza Pahlavi?
Reza Pahlavi, 63, is the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s last monarch, who was ousted in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The prince has lived in exile out of the country since, mainly in the U.S. where he has pushed for a secular, democratic Iran.
Date of Birth: October 31, 1960, Tehran
Exile: Escaped Iran at 17, months before the revolution
Education: Educated in the United States as a fighter pilot (as was his father)
Now: Top voice for the opposition movement against Iran backed by U.S, Israel and allies
Unlike is father, who was an absolute king, Pahlavi says he does not seek to restore the monarchy. He is not calling for separate or lay life in the Castle but for a democratic republic through national plebiscite.
Why Is He in the News Now?
Iran has been rocked by waves of protests since the killing of Mahsa Amini in 2022, where people have been chanting things like, “Death to the Dictator” and “Reza Shah, bless your soul!” — a nod to his grandfather, who modernized Iran in the early decades of the 20th century. Despite of the strong protests and opposition Tehran managed to coup up with the rising issue. Many critics were suggesting that it will be the end of Islamic Republic but Tehran proved them wrong.
Pahlavi has sought to be a unifying figure, coordinating with activists, Hollywood celebrities and even rival opposition groups. His strategy includes:
✅ Western lobbying (meeting with U.S. and E.U. leaders)
✅ Strong presence on social media (1M+ followers)
✅ Coalition-building (collaboration with other dissendents)
Viral Moments:
2022 Protests: Pahlavi’s speeches went viral, and protesters were seen waving the pre-1979 Iranian flag.
2024 Rumors: American officials began to consider throwing their weight behind him as an alternative to the Islamic Republic.
Was He Really Up to Replacing the Islamic Republic?
Supporters Say:
✔Symbol of Resistance: Stands for Iran before the theocracy.
✔ Pro-Democracy: Supports free elections, women’s rights, secularism.
✔ INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT: A “safe” option percieed by the west.
Critics Argue:
✖ Monarchy Baggage Many Iranians continue to resent the Pahlavi dynasty’s authoritarian legacy.
✖ No Real Power: Lacks an armed movement within Iran.
✖ Opposition Divisions Some activists insist he has no place.
What’s Next?
Pahlavi is not the only opposition leader, but his name recognition and media presence make him a major player. And in the event of a collapse of Iran’s regime, he could be a transitional figure — that is, if protesters and world powers will concur but this is not the first time when it seems like that situation is unpredictable. Change or not time will tell.
Is history about to repeat itself? Until then, Reza Pahlavi will be a divisive but fascinating part of Iran’s struggle for liberty.
