Paris: In a significant political development, exiled Iranian opposition leader and Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has openly criticized Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, calling for his resignation and a transition of power. Addressing a press conference in Paris on Monday, Pahlavi questioned Khamenei’s leadership in the wake of recent attacks on Iran by Israel and the United States.
Pahlavi, son of the last Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, accused Khamenei of pushing the country into violence and instability without delivering any benefit to the Iranian people. He stated that Iran has witnessed only bloodshed under Khamenei’s rule and asserted that the time had come for the Supreme Leader to step down and face a transparent investigation.
He further alleged that the Islamic Republic has reached its final phase and claimed that Khamenei, along with several senior figures, is preparing to flee the country. “No nation has ever prospered under the authoritarian rule of a single individual,” Pahlavi remarked.
The remarks come amid growing discontent within Iran and renewed discussions about political transition. Despite the fall of the Pahlavi dynasty during the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Reza Pahlavi continues to be recognized by his supporters as the rightful heir to Iran’s monarchy.
His comments have sparked considerable reaction, with political observers noting that signs of potential regime change are beginning to emerge. Whether this sentiment will translate into concrete political developments remains to be seen in the coming days.