A Throne in the Clouds,
with No Ground Beneath It

Myth of Return, Reality of Rejection

For someone who claims the mantle of national leadership, Reza Pahlavi's record of engagement in Iran’s decades-long struggle for freedom is astonishingly hollow. He has never paid a price for Iran’s freedom. He has never organized any act of resistance on the ground, and never stood shoulder to shoulder with the youth now imprisoned, blinded, or killed in the name of freedom. To claim leadership while explicitly rejecting any personal cost for freedom reveals a profound disconnect between Pahlavi and the people he claims to represent.

Inaction and Disconnect: For over four decades in exile, Reza Pahlavi has lived comfortably in the U.S., sustained by wealth inherited from his father’s looted billions, while showing little active engagement or personal sacrifice in Iran’s struggle for freedom—a stark contrast to the risks undertaken by activists inside the country.
People’s rejection of monarchy: During the 2022 uprising across the country, one of the most popular slogans chanted by protesters was: “Death to the Dictator, be it the Shah or the Supreme Leader.” This powerful slogan rejected any return to the one-party dictatorship of Reza Pahlavi’s father—a system he openly praises and appears eager to revive.
Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.
Regime-Aligned Inner Circle: Key advisors such as Amir Hossein Etemadi—who was pardoned by Khamenei after publicly condemning protesters—and Erfan Ghanei Fard, who is linked to IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaee, connect Pahlavi to figures within the regime, directly contradicting his claimed stance as an opposition leader.
Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.
Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.
Reza Pahlavi and the Legacy of One-Party Rule: Despite repeated claims of supporting democracy, secular governance, and civil liberties, Reza Pahlavi’s actions and statements betray a deep-rooted allegiance to the authoritarian legacy of his father, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, and grandfather, Reza Shah. Not only has he failed to condemn the brutal history of political repression under the monarchy, but he has also explicitly suggested reviving the pre-revolution constitution—the very legal framework that enabled dictatorship, systemic torture, and a one-party state.
Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.
Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.
U.S. Government Funding Pursuit: Through the National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), Pahlavi has sought U.S. State Department funds, including access to frozen Iranian assets, under the “Maximum Support” slogan, raising ethical and transparency concerns, using the pain and suffering of the Iranian people for personal gains.
The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

For someone who claims the mantle of national leadership, Reza Pahlavi's record of engagement in Iran’s decades-long struggle for freedom is astonishingly hollow. He has never paid a price for Iran’s freedom. He has never organized any act of resistance on the ground, and never stood shoulder to shoulder with the youth now imprisoned, blinded, or killed in the name of freedom. To claim leadership while explicitly rejecting any personal cost for freedom reveals a profound disconnect between Pahlavi and the people he claims to represent.

Inaction and Disconnect: For over four decades in exile, Reza Pahlavi has lived comfortably in the U.S., sustained by wealth inherited from his father’s looted billions, while showing little active engagement or personal sacrifice in Iran’s struggle for freedom—a stark contrast to the risks undertaken by activists inside the country.
People’s rejection of monarchy: During the 2022 uprising across the country, one of the most popular slogans chanted by protesters was: “Death to the Dictator, be it the Shah or the Supreme Leader.” This powerful slogan rejected any return to the one-party dictatorship of Reza Pahlavi’s father—a system he openly praises and appears eager to revive.
Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.
Regime-Aligned Inner Circle: Key advisors such as Amir Hossein Etemadi—who was pardoned by Khamenei after publicly condemning protesters—and Erfan Ghanei Fard, who is linked to IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaee, connect Pahlavi to figures within the regime, directly contradicting his claimed stance as an opposition leader.
Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.
Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.
Reza Pahlavi and the Legacy of One-Party Rule: Despite repeated claims of supporting democracy, secular governance, and civil liberties, Reza Pahlavi’s actions and statements betray a deep-rooted allegiance to the authoritarian legacy of his father, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, and grandfather, Reza Shah. Not only has he failed to condemn the brutal history of political repression under the monarchy, but he has also explicitly suggested reviving the pre-revolution constitution—the very legal framework that enabled dictatorship, systemic torture, and a one-party state.
Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.
Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.
U.S. Government Funding Pursuit: Through the National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), Pahlavi has sought U.S. State Department funds, including access to frozen Iranian assets, under the “Maximum Support” slogan, raising ethical and transparency concerns, using the pain and suffering of the Iranian people for personal gains.
The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

For someone who claims the mantle of national leadership, Reza Pahlavi's record of engagement in Iran’s decades-long struggle for freedom is astonishingly hollow. He has never paid a price for Iran’s freedom. He has never organized any act of resistance on the ground, and never stood shoulder to shoulder with the youth now imprisoned, blinded, or killed in the name of freedom. To claim leadership while explicitly rejecting any personal cost for freedom reveals a profound disconnect between Pahlavi and the people he claims to represent.

Inaction and Disconnect: For over four decades in exile, Reza Pahlavi has lived comfortably in the U.S., sustained by wealth inherited from his father’s looted billions, while showing little active engagement or personal sacrifice in Iran’s struggle for freedom—a stark contrast to the risks undertaken by activists inside the country.
People’s rejection of monarchy: During the 2022 uprising across the country, one of the most popular slogans chanted by protesters was: “Death to the Dictator, be it the Shah or the Supreme Leader.” This powerful slogan rejected any return to the one-party dictatorship of Reza Pahlavi’s father—a system he openly praises and appears eager to revive.
Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.
Regime-Aligned Inner Circle: Key advisors such as Amir Hossein Etemadi—who was pardoned by Khamenei after publicly condemning protesters—and Erfan Ghanei Fard, who is linked to IRGC commander Mohsen Rezaee, connect Pahlavi to figures within the regime, directly contradicting his claimed stance as an opposition leader.
Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.
Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.
Reza Pahlavi and the Legacy of One-Party Rule: Despite repeated claims of supporting democracy, secular governance, and civil liberties, Reza Pahlavi’s actions and statements betray a deep-rooted allegiance to the authoritarian legacy of his father, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, and grandfather, Reza Shah. Not only has he failed to condemn the brutal history of political repression under the monarchy, but he has also explicitly suggested reviving the pre-revolution constitution—the very legal framework that enabled dictatorship, systemic torture, and a one-party state.
Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.
Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.
U.S. Government Funding Pursuit: Through the National Union for Democracy in Iran (NUFDI), Pahlavi has sought U.S. State Department funds, including access to frozen Iranian assets, under the “Maximum Support” slogan, raising ethical and transparency concerns, using the pain and suffering of the Iranian people for personal gains.
The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

A Throne in the Clouds,
with No Ground Beneath It

A Throne in the Clouds,
with No Ground Beneath It

Myth of Return, Reality of Rejection

Myth of Return, Reality of Rejection

Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.

Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.

Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.

Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.

Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.

The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.

Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.

Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.

Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.

Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.

The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

Explicit Rejection of Sacrifice: In a December 2024 interview, Pahlavi stated that he would not sacrifice his personal freedom for others—an admission that underscores his unwillingness to bear any cost for Iran’s liberation which further undermines his claim to leadership.

Lack of Popularity and Mandate: Pahlavi’s leadership lacks a grassroots mandate, widely viewed as inherited rather than earned. His resurgence during the 2022 uprising deepened divisions within the opposition rather than uniting it, reflecting persistent skepticism about his legitimacy.

Historical Baggage and Nostalgia: Pahlavi’s praise for his father’s rule and SAVAK, alongside a polished online presence funded by looted wealth, pushes a romanticized monarchy narrative, clashing with Iranians’ rejection of both theocracy and monarchy, as seen in protest chants since 2017.

Serving Regime Interests: Tehran exploits Pahlavi’s visibility to sow division, portraying him as a weak, regime-friendly alternative. This strategy was openly acknowledged by Tasnim News in February 2025, which highlighted the usefulness of monarchism in preserving the Islamic Republic.

Undermining the MEK: Pahlavi and NUFDI actively demonize the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK)—a significant internal opposition force—by employing regime-like rhetoric such as “cult” and “terrorists,” effectively aiding Tehran’s efforts to discredit a viable alternative.

The Cyber Campaign: Evidence suggests regime-linked bots and troll farms promote him as the “people’s choice” across platforms like X and Instagram. This digital strategy fabricates support, masking his lack of grassroots backing or real presence inside Iran.

Stay informed. Uncover the truth—one story at a time.

Stay informed. Uncover the truth—one story at a time.

Stay informed. Uncover the truth—one story at a time.