Iran's opposition, diaspora must remain united during protest week

As Americans celebrate their nation's 250th independence anniversary on July 4, Iranians worldwide are called to action. Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi's "Global Week of Action for a Free Iran," running from July 4 to July 9, urges gatherings outside U.S. embassies. This campaign coincides with the Islamic Republic's long-delayed funeral ceremonies for former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, scheduled to begin on July 4 and conclude with his burial on July 9.

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If the regime wants to use Khamenei’s funeral to present unity, Iranians abroad must use the same week to show that unity belongs to the people, not to the Islamic Republic.

The regime intends to project an image of national unity and solemnity around Khamenei's passing. However, the article contends that this week presents an opportunity for Iranians abroad to showcase their own unity, distinct from the Islamic Republic's. This does not necessitate resolving all internal disagreements among the diverse opposition factions, including monarchists, republicans, and various ideological groups.

Instead, the immediate focus must be on applying pressure to the current regime. The article asserts that the Islamic Republic's perceived strength relies on the opposition appearing divided and distracted. By uniting, the opposition can prevent the regime from exploiting Khamenei's funeral as a display of power. The internal situation in Iran, marked by economic decay, failing infrastructure, and political paralysis, is presented as a vulnerability the regime seeks to conceal.

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For now, the main issue is not the flag, the presidency, the monarchy, nor the parliament. The central issue is pressure, and the regime must not be allowed to turn one of its weakest moments into a display of strength.

The core message is that the survival of the current regime hinges on the opposition's disunity. Therefore, prioritizing a united front to exert pressure is paramount. The debates about Iran's future constitution and governance are important but secondary to the immediate goal of challenging the existing power structure.

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The Islamic Republic has always relied on two arguments when speaking to the outside world. The first is that it is stronger than it looks. The second is that there is no alternative.