Reza Pahlavi in Berlin: Calls for pressure on Iran, criticizes appeasement

Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last Shah, made a significant visit to Berlin, calling on European governments to take a firmer stance against the ruling mullahs in Tehran. Speaking to journalists, Pahlavi emphasized that any notion of achieving peace or reconciliation with the current Iranian regime is a dangerous illusion. He pointed to the recent wave of executions and death sentences handed down to political prisoners as stark evidence of the regime's brutality and unwillingness to change.

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It is time for you to act.

While Pahlavi sought dialogue with German politicians, including CDU foreign policy expert Armin Laschet, official government meetings were not scheduled. A government spokesperson characterized Pahlavi as a private individual, underscoring the German government's official stance that the Iranian people must have the freedom to choose their own leadership. Pahlavi expressed his disappointment with this approach, calling the refusal to engage in talks 'regrettable.'

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It is a fantasy to believe that one can make peace with the Iranian regime.

This visit highlights the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Iran. From our perspective at the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, Pahlavi's appeal to the West underscores a deep-seated frustration among many in the Iranian diaspora and opposition who feel their calls for change are being ignored or met with appeasement. The German government's cautious approach, while perhaps intended to maintain diplomatic channels, is seen by some as a failure to acknowledge the severity of the human rights situation in Iran and the aspirations of those seeking a democratic future for their country. The contrast between Pahlavi's direct appeals and the official governmental response reflects the ongoing debate within Europe about how best to engage with Iran.

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It is regrettable.