Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi Urges Global Solidarity with Iranian Protesters at Munich Rally

Around 250,000 people rallied in Munich, urging global support for Iranian protesters. Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi emphasised the need for international pressure on Tehran amid ongoing unrest in Iran.

Approximately 2,50,000 individuals protested against Iran's government during a world leaders' meeting in Germany, according to police reports. The demonstration in Munich was part of a global initiative led by Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, urging increased international pressure on Tehran. Participants banged drums and chanted for regime change, echoing Pahlavi's call for similar protests in Los Angeles and Toronto.

The Munich rally saw demonstrators waving green-white-and-red flags with lion and sun emblems, reminiscent of Iran's pre-1979 flag. Police noted that the turnout exceeded organisers' expectations. "Change, change, regime change," the crowd chanted. At a news conference, Pahlavi warned of further deaths in Iran if democracies remain passive following last month's crackdown on protesters.

Global Support for Iranian Protesters

Pahlavi questioned whether the world would support the Iranian people, emphasising that the survival of Iran's government signals to tyrants that violence ensures power retention. Demonstrators at the rally wore red caps reading "Make Iran Great Again," similar to those worn by supporters of former US President Donald Trump. US Senator Lindsey Graham addressed the crowd while holding one of these caps.

Many attendees displayed placards featuring Pahlavi, some labelling him as a king. Despite being in exile for nearly five decades, Pahlavi is attempting to position himself as a significant figure in Iran's future. The crowd chanted "Pahlavi for Iran" and "democracy for Iran" amidst the sound of drums and cymbals.

Protests Beyond Germany

Daniyal Mohtashamian, who travelled from Zurich to participate, expressed hope for regime change in Iran. He highlighted the internet blackout preventing Iranian voices from reaching the outside world. In Cyprus, around 500 protesters gathered outside the presidential palace, holding banners opposing Iran's government and supporting Pahlavi.

The Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 7,005 deaths during last month's protests, including 214 government forces. This agency has accurately tracked fatalities in previous Iranian unrests through its network of activists within Iran. Meanwhile, Iran's government reported a death toll of 3,117 on January 21 but has historically underreported such figures.

International Reactions

The Associated Press could not independently verify these numbers due to disrupted internet and international communications in Iran. Iranian leaders face renewed pressure from Trump, who has threatened military action unless Iran scales back its nuclear program. Trump suggested that regime change would be beneficial for Iran.

Iran was also a focal point during Friday's protests in Munich at an annual security conference attended by European leaders and global security figures. Supporters of the Iranian opposition group People's Mujahedeen Organisation of Iran demonstrated there as well.

The ongoing unrest highlights the challenges faced by Iranian leaders amid international scrutiny and domestic discontent. As global attention remains focused on Iran, the future of its leadership continues to be uncertain.

With inputs from PTI