Norway's Parliament Speaker meets Iranian 'princess' at Oslo Freedom Forum

Parliament Speaker Masud Gharahkhani met Noor Pahlavi, granddaughter of Iran's former Shah, at the Oslo Freedom Forum, sparking discussion about the role of the monarchy in a future Iran. Pahlavi, who resides in the U.S., emphasized that her family's goal is not to reinstate an authoritarian monarchy but to achieve freedom and fair elections for the Iranian people.

"We are not fighting for a throne, but for freedom," Pahlavi told the forum audience. She expressed continued hope for regime change in Iran, despite what she described as internal rifts within the current government. Pahlavi believes the regime is not as strong as it appears and is heading toward collapse.

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We are not fighting for a throne, but for freedom.

Gharahkhani, who fled Iran as a child, has previously drawn criticism for his warm reception of Pahlavi's father, Reza Pahlavi. He defended his meeting with Noor Pahlavi, stating the importance of showing solidarity with those who share similar aspirations for freedom. "Giving up hope is no way. Not showing solidarity is no solution," Gharahkhani commented.

However, Pahlavi remains a controversial figure among some Iranian diaspora members and experts. Her popularity is considered limited and partly influenced by external factors, according to Iran analysts. The diaspora itself is divided on the role of the monarchy, leading to criticism of Gharahkhani for publicly endorsing a figure some find contentious.

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Giving up hope is no way. Not showing solidarity is no solution.