Who Is Reza Pahlavi? The Son Of Iran's Last Shah Trying To Overthrow Khamenei

Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of Iran's last Shah, urged Western governments to cease supporting the Islamic Republic, claiming its end is near.

Pahlavi denies seeking power, prioritising a peaceful transition to a secular democracy.

Source : X@PahlaviReza

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last monarch, issued a sharp warning to Western governments on Monday, urging them not to support the Islamic Republic. Speaking at a press conference on June 23, Pahlavi declared that “the end of the regime is near,” and called for a united international front to support the Iranian people's push for freedom.

“The time has come to stand with the Iranian people,” Pahlavi said. “Do not throw this regime a lifeline. Destroying nuclear facilities alone will not bring peace. What we need is a long-term strategy that enables democratic change and ensures lasting stability in the region.”

Now based in Washington, D.C. -- where he has built a sizeable following in Iran's diaspora -- Reza Pahlavi has lived in exile since 1979, when the Islamic Revolution toppled his father, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Over the years, he has become a prominent voice among Iran’s opposition forces, advocating for a secular, democratic government to replace the country’s clerical leadership.

Without presenting specific evidence, Pahlavi claimed that Iran’s ruling elite is beginning to panic. He alleged that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with top regime officials and family members, are preparing exit strategies as public unrest grows.

When asked whether he sees himself returning to Iran as a monarch or political leader, Pahlavi rejected the notion of pursuing power.

“I am not seeking a throne or title,” he responded. “My commitment is to a peaceful transition that protects Iran’s unity, ensures freedom for all citizens, and establishes a clear separation between religion and state.”

Who Was The Last Shah of Iran?

Reza Pahlavi’s father, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, served as the last Shah of Iran. His reign ended in 1979 when a massive uprising—now known as the Iranian Revolution—swept away centuries of monarchy and ushered in an Islamic theocracy led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

The revolution was the result of growing dissatisfaction with the Shah’s authoritarian rule, rampant inequality, religious disenchantment, and widespread perception of Iran as a puppet of the West.

After a 1953 CIA-backed coup removed Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh, the Shah tightened his grip on power. Dissent was crushed, the press was muzzled, and his notorious secret police, SAVAK, gained a reputation for brutal repression.