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
On Saturday, cities across Europe saw the display of pre-revolution Iranian flags adorned with lions as supporters of the nation’s people rallied against the escalating conflict with the United States and Israel. Demonstrations took place in Berlin, Stockholm, Paris, and other locations, reflecting a spectrum of views on Iran’s leadership and future direction.
London’s Dual Call
In London, protesters divided their efforts between opposing the war and backing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The “Hands Off Iran” march attracted between 5,000 and 6,000 participants, according to the Metropolitan Police, who chanted “Stop the bombing now, now, now” to demand an end to airstrikes.
“I support Pahlavi, who is advocating for a revolution,” said Masoud Ghanaatian, a 35-year-old student at a protest in southern Paris. “He represents a democratic vision, capable of guiding a shift and pledging to hold fair elections.”
Meanwhile, others in the capital waved US, Israeli, and pre-revolution Iran flags, carrying photos of the late shah’s son, Reza Pahlavi, who is seen as a potential alternative to the current leadership. Paris witnessed two distinct gatherings—one endorsing Pahlavi’s leadership and another rejecting it.
Stockholm and Amsterdam Demonstrations
Stockholm’s demonstrators held up images of Pahlavi and his late father, emphasizing their desire for a change in Iran’s governance. In Amsterdam, a group marched along a canal, waving Israeli, American, and pre-revolution Iran flags, urging the government to invite Pahlavi and close the Iranian embassy.
Early Saturday morning in Britain, anti-war activists gathered at an air force base in Fairford, southwest of London, holding signs like “Hands off Iran” and “Yanks go home.” The demonstrations highlighted growing public sentiment against military actions targeting Iran.
Political Stances and Leadership Debates
US President Donald Trump has pledged to assist in rebuilding Iran’s economy if the nation appoints a leader acceptable to him. However, Iran’s ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, asserted that the selection of Khamenei’s successor would be determined entirely by Iran’s constitutional framework and the people’s will, without foreign influence.
