Prince Reza Pahlavi: Iran's future will be determined by the people's free choice

At the Berlin Conference, Prince Reza Pahlavi, while emphasizing the free choice of the people, criticized Western policies and warned of the continued threat to the Islamic Republic.

Continuing the political movements of Iranian opposition figures in Europe, Reza Pahlavi, during his trip to Germany, expressed his views on Iran's political future, the role of the international community, and the necessity of returning sovereignty to the people; positions that have been widely reflected in international media.

On Thursday, April 23, he emphasized the role of the people in determining the fate of the country in his speech in the German parliament, saying: "I am not the final decision-maker. My proposal is to hold free elections so that the people can determine the future path themselves."

This emphasis on "free choice" comes at a time when many human rights organizations have repeatedly warned in recent years about political restrictions, the lack of competitive elections, and the suppression of opponents in Iran.

In another part of his speech, Reza Pahlavi criticized the policies of Western countries towards the Islamic Republic and called for a change in their approach. He stated: "The world must apologize to the Iranians for years of ignoring the Iranian people and appeasing the Islamic Republic."

Referring to numerous protests in the past decades, he added that the Iranian people have risen up many times to change the conditions, but what they have received have only been "symbolic gestures."

This stance comes at a time when, in recent years, reports from international institutions, including human rights organizations, have reported violent clashes with protesters in Iran.

Reza Pahlavi also warned about the consequences of the Islamic Republic's continued rule for the security of the region and Europe, saying: "As long as the Islamic Republic is in power, Europe will continue to face threats, and no negotiation or agreement will eliminate this threat."

Referring to the regional policies of the Islamic Republic, he considered this regime a factor in instability in the Middle East, an issue that has previously been raised in reports by some Western media outlets and security analysts.

Another part of his remarks addressed the human rights situation in Iran. He said, “As we speak, the Islamic Republic has sentenced 20 political prisoners to death.”

He also referred to communication restrictions, adding: "For weeks, people's access to the internet has been disrupted or cut off," an issue that has also been reflected in reports from international organizations.

Referring to the gathering of Iranians in Munich on February 14, Reza Pahlavi called on European governments to pay attention to the demands of Iranians abroad, saying: "Europe must listen to the demands of Iranians abroad and not enter into negotiations with those who forced them into exile."

These rallies, held in various European cities, are considered to indicate an increase in Iranian political activity abroad.

He also touched upon the historical relations between Iran and the Jews in this meeting, saying: "I am a friend of Israel and the Jews, because once again, as a descendant of Cyrus the Great, we are proud of the fact that one of the most fundamental foundations of human rights was formed during his era; through his charter, which is displayed around the world today. The same charter that is also mentioned in the United Nations. At some point, the principles of freedom took on meaning when he freed the Jewish slaves in Babylon and helped them rebuild their temples in Jerusalem."

He went on to point out the historical and religious ties between the two nations, adding: "Iranians and Jews have a historical and biblical relationship. In fact, there are only two nations that can change this. In modern history, Iran was not the only country in the Middle East that gave refuge to Jews fleeing Adolf Hitler and his regime. They found refuge in Iran. This is part of our history. This is part of our tradition of giving refuge to people who have been persecuted."

Reza Pahlavi's positions come as the debate about Iran's political future continues, both domestically and internationally. The emphasis on free elections, criticism of global policies, and references to historical and religious values ​​indicate that efforts are underway to paint a different vision for Iran's future.

Meanwhile, many observers believe that what is most important is that the voices of the Iranian people are heard and that conditions are created for them to choose their future path without pressure or restrictions.