Exiled Iranian royal Reza Pahlavi has called on Iranians to continue their push for political change, following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire involving the United States, Iran and Israel.
In a series of posts on social media, Pahlavi acknowledged the ceasefire had “disheartened many” but said it should not be seen as a setback, urging supporters to remain “patient” and prepared for what he described as a decisive moment.
He argued that recent military developments had significantly weakened Iran’s leadership and security apparatus, but maintained that lasting change would ultimately depend on action from within the country. He said the “final blow” would need to come from the Iranian people themselves.
Pahlavi also used the posts to criticise Western governments, including the United Kingdom, accusing them of failing to take stronger action against Tehran. He called on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to adopt a tougher stance, including measures targeting Iran’s leadership and institutions.
In separate remarks, he claimed the current political system in Iran had lost legitimacy and would not be reformed through diplomatic agreements alone. He described the ceasefire and negotiations as temporary developments that would not alter underlying conditions within the country.
Addressing Iran’s armed forces directly, Pahlavi urged members to “fulfil their national role”, calling on them to side with the public rather than the current leadership.
His comments come amid heightened tensions in the region and ongoing international efforts to de-escalate the conflict. While the ceasefire has been welcomed by governments seeking stability, reactions among opposition figures and diaspora groups have been mixed.
Pahlavi, who has long positioned himself as a leading opposition figure outside Iran, reiterated his support for what he described as a popular movement for change, saying the outcome would ultimately be determined by the Iranian people.
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