Iranians oppose the reinstallation of the Shah's monarchy

In the heart of the Middle East, the Islamic Republic of Iran is currently facing a wave of global anger, as memories of its past under the rule of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, resurface. This period, marked by tyranny and repression, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of autocratic rule.

During the Shah's reign, the Bureau for Intelligence and Security of the State (SAVAK), a secret police force, was instrumental in crushing dissent. SAVAK's methods, notorious for their cruelty, included murder and torture of dissidents. The force's infrastructure, personnel, and techniques became core components of the new regime's security apparatus under the Islamic Republic.

The Shah's rule was not without financial scandal. Before his overthrow in 1979, it is estimated that he misappropriated $1 billion. His much-trumpeted economic 'development' only served to entrench power and enrich cronies, not empower citizens.

Reza Pahlavi, the Shah's son, is one of the most prominent supporters of this view. He advocates for a return to a secular rule, arguing that repression under a secular banner can be just as vicious as under a religious one. His views have found support among some, sparking a dangerous nostalgia for Iran's last monarch.

Israel publicly endorsed Reza Pahlavi in 2025, with explicit backing from Israeli government officials including Science Minister Gila Gamliel. However, there is no confirmed public support from other specific countries or institutions directly named in 2025.

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As the world watches the unfolding events in Iran, it is crucial to remember the lessons of the past and strive for a future that values freedom, justice, and the empowerment of its citizens.