A Mass Protest for Regime Change in Iran Took Place in Munich 0 8

A mass demonstration against the Iranian authorities took place in Munich. According to police, around 200,000 people participated in the event - significantly more than expected. The event occurred on Saturday, February 14, against the backdrop of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), which was also attended by Reza Pahlavi, the son of the overthrown Shah who has lived in the U.S. since 1979, and an Iranian opposition figure in exile. During the day, he personally appeared at the rally, writes DW.

Despite the rain, protesters gathered at Theresienwiese in central Munich. When Pahlavi took the stage, many participants holding his portraits began to chant: "Long live the Shah!" The protest against the current leadership of Iran was organized by the opposition group The Munich Circle.

At the rally, speakers called for a peaceful and democratic transition of power in Iran. Participants emphasized that the current leaders in Tehran must be held accountable for the violence and repression against their own population. Protests also took place on Saturday not only in Munich but in several other major cities around the world, including Toronto and Los Angeles.

Pahlavi Asks Trump for Help

Reza Pahlavi stated before the rally that he believes the time has come to change the political system in Iran. He pointed out that participants in recent protests in the country did not want to reform existing institutions - they were asking for international support to completely replace the regime.

Addressing U.S. President Donald Trump, Pahlavi said that Iranians had heard his statements that help "is already on the way" and expressed hope that the U.S. would indeed assist. He noted that many in the country trust the American leader and are counting on his intervention.

Iranian Opposition Remains Divided

During the unrest in Iran, some protesters expressed support for the restoration of the monarchy. However, Pahlavi noted that his goal is not to return to the throne. He said he only seeks to see the day when the Iranian people can freely choose their government. His position is to support the democratic process, not a personal struggle for the title. He added that he is asking for international assistance not for himself, but for the people of Iran.

At the same time, the Iranian opposition remains divided. Pahlavi himself faces criticism for his support of Israel, as well as for not distancing himself from the authoritarian style of governance of his father, the last Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.