[Iran Watch #04] “Khamenei is a Frightened Rat” – Reza Pahlavi Calls for Iran’s Final Uprising

- June 19, 2025

Exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi declares Iran’s regime is collapsing, calling Supreme Leader Khamenei a “frightened rat.” A powerful call for national uprising and democratic transition

Split-portrait image of Reza Pahlavi and Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, symbolizing the power struggle over Iran's future

📌 Table of Contents

1. Who Is Reza Pahlavi?
2. Collapse from Within: The Crown Prince’s Statement
3. “Khamenei Is a Frightened Rat”: Symbolic Language & Rage
4. A National Call: From Bandar Abbas to Isfahan
5. Appeal to Iran’s Armed Forces
6. The Post-Regime Vision: What Comes Next?
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

1. Who Is Reza Pahlavi?

Reza Pahlavi is the exiled crown prince of Iran and the son of the late Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. Living in exile since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, he has remained a vocal critic of the Islamic Republic and an advocate for a secular and democratic Iran.

2. Collapse from Within: The Crown Prince’s Statement

Amid mounting domestic unrest and regional conflict, Pahlavi declared on social media that “the Islamic Republic has reached its end.” He claimed that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has “gone into hiding underground” and that the collapse of the regime is “irreversible.”

3. “Khamenei Is a Frightened Rat”: Symbolic Language & Rage

Using sharp metaphors, Pahlavi described Khamenei as “a frightened rat,” implying desperation and fear within the regime’s highest ranks. The imagery aims to provoke emotional and political mobilization by portraying the regime’s leadership as weak and illegitimate.

4. A National Call: From Bandar Abbas to Isfahan

Pahlavi called on Iranians across the country—from the port city of Bandar Abbas to cultural centers like Shiraz and Isfahan—to rise in nationwide protest. He framed this moment as the “final chapter” of the Islamic Republic.

5. Appeal to Iran’s Armed Forces

He directly addressed Iran’s military and security forces, encouraging them to abandon the regime and align with the people. He claimed that many within the armed forces are already in secret communication with him and urged others to follow.

6. The Post-Regime Vision: What Comes Next?

To ease fears of chaos, Pahlavi stated that a transitional plan is already in place, including the “first hundred days” after regime collapse. He pledged the formation of a national, democratic government built “by the Iranian people and for the Iranian people.”

7. Conclusion

Reza Pahlavi’s latest statements mark a bold escalation in rhetoric against the Islamic Republic. Whether his words translate into coordinated action remains to be seen, but the symbolism and timing signal deep cracks in Iran’s political foundation.

$In the heart of a vast desert, two distant silhouettes face each other beneath a golden dusk—one crowned, draped in regal folds; the other robed, with a tall turban and staff. Faint hues of green, white, and red tint the horizon as fractured earth and shadow stretch between them.$

8. FAQ

Q: Is Reza Pahlavi leading an organized movement inside Iran?
A: While Pahlavi lives in exile, he claims growing support inside Iran, including from elements of the military and security forces.

Q: What is the international response?
A: So far, major governments have not formally acknowledged his leadership, though many monitor Iran’s internal dynamics closely.

Q: What would a post-Islamic Republic Iran look like?
A: Pahlavi envisions a secular, democratic nation with a national unity government and constitutional reforms.

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