Shah’s Son Pahlavi to Attend Munich Security Conference
Munich, February 5 – Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Shah of Persia who was overthrown in 1979, is slated to attend the Munich Security Conference (MSC) next week. Pahlavi, a leading Iranian opposition figure living in exile, has confirmed his participation in the event, which will take place from February 13 to 15 at the Bayerischer Hof Hotel. In contrast, the Iranian government was disinvited from the conference several days ago.
Leading Opposition Figure to Participate
The 65-year-old Pahlavi, residing in the United States, has been a vocal supporter of the mass protests against the Iranian leadership. He is widely regarded as the most prominent and influential Iranian opposition figure in exile. Images of him have been displayed at solidarity rallies for the protest movement in Iran, including those held in Germany.
This year’s invitation to Pahlavi follows a period of uncertainty regarding his attendance at the previous year’s conference. In 2023, an invitation was initially extended but then “not formalized” in consultation with the German government.
Iranian Government Disinvited After Crackdown
The Iranian government, initially invited to this year’s conference, was subsequently disinvited following its violent crackdown on the protest movement, which resulted in thousands of deaths. The German Foreign Office had previously advised against extending an invitation.
Large Demonstration Planned in Munich
A major demonstration titled “Human Rights and Freedom in Iran. International Solidarity with the Iranian People” is scheduled for February 14 in Munich. Pahlavi himself has called for participation in this demonstration via social media, with organizers aiming to mobilize 100,000 participants.
High-Profile Attendance Expected at MSC
This year’s Security Conference is expected to draw more than 60 heads of state and government, along with nearly 100 foreign and defense ministers. Pahlavi had previously attended the Security Conference in 2023, though details of his appearances in Munich this year are yet to be announced.
Reza Pahlavi’s father, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, reigned over Persia from 1941 until 1979, when he was overthrown during the Islamic Revolution. Reza Pahlavi would have been the heir to the throne. “Shah” is a Persian title of ruler, comparable to Emperor or King.
