Pro-monarchy and pro-democracy protesters gather across Europe in support of Iran
Pro-monarchy and pro-democracy protesters gather across Europe in support of Iran
Protests Across Europe
On Saturday, demonstrations unfolded in multiple European cities, with participants waving flags representing pre-revolution Iran. The events were organized to show solidarity with the Iranian populace amid the ongoing conflict involving the US and Israel.
Support for Reza Pahlavi
In Berlin, Stockholm, and Paris, crowds rallied behind exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s former shah. Supporters view him as a viable alternative following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in an Israeli-American attack. Meanwhile, in London, some protesters condemned the war, while others defended Khamenei.
Diverse Perspectives in London
Between 5,000 and 6,000 attendees joined the “Hands Off Iran” rally in London, according to the Metropolitan Police. Participants chanted “stop the bombing now, now, now” as they demanded an end to military actions. Two separate events in Paris highlighted differing opinions: one backing Pahlavi’s leadership in a transition, and another opposing that vision.
“I support Pahlavi, who is calling for a revolution,” said Masoud Ghanaatian, a 35-year-old student at a demonstration in southern Paris. “He’s a democrat. He can oversee a transition and promises to organize elections.”
Stockholm and Amsterdam Protests
Thousands in Stockholm carried images of Pahlavi and his late father, symbolizing their backing for a monarchical shift. In Amsterdam, marchers lined a canal, displaying Israeli, American, and pre-revolution Iran flags. They urged the government to welcome Pahlavi and shut down the Iranian embassy.
US Role in Leadership Transition
Shortly after dawn in Britain, anti-war protesters gathered at an air force base in Fairford, holding signs like “Hands off Iran” and “Yanks go home.” US President Donald Trump pledged to aid Iran’s economic recovery if a successor to Khamenei is deemed “acceptable” by him. Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, countered, stating, “The selection of Iran’s leadership will take place strictly in accordance with our constitutional procedures and solely by the will of the Iranian people, without any foreign interference.”
