Massive Protests Across Globe Call for Regime Change in Iran

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An estimated 250,000 people demonstrated in Munich on Saturday, February 14th, voicing opposition to the Iranian government, as exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for increased international pressure on Tehran and outlined a vision for a secular democratic future for the country. The rally was part of a coordinated 'global day of action' with simultaneous protests in cities around the world, including Los Angeles, Washington D.C., Toronto, Tel Aviv, Lisbon, Sydney, and London.

Why it matters

The protests come amid ongoing unrest within Iran, sparked by the brutal repression of demonstrations that began in January. Rights groups estimate that over 7,000 people, primarily protesters, have been killed in the crackdown, with more than 53,845 arrested. The international community is closely watching developments, balancing concerns about human rights with the complexities of regional stability and nuclear proliferation.

The details

Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, addressed the Munich crowd, stating his commitment to leading a transition towards a democratic system. 'I am here to guarantee a transition to a secular democratic future,' he said, adding that he would seek to facilitate a democratic process allowing Iranians to determine their country's fate through free and fair elections. Demonstrators chanted slogans calling for regime change, including 'Change, change, regime change' and 'Javid shah' (long live the shah), while waving flags bearing the lion and sun emblem used by Iran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

• The rally was held on Saturday, February 14th.
• The protests were part of a 'global day of action' on February 14th.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The United States is preparing for further talks with Iranian government representatives in Geneva next week, with the focus expected to be on Iran's nuclear program.