Rallies Held Worldwide in Support of Iran Protesters

Exiled Iranian prince Reza Pahlavi calls for democratic transition in homeland

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Demonstrations have erupted globally in solidarity with anti-government protesters in Iran, who are facing a violent crackdown by the country's clerical leadership. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last shah, addressed a crowd of around 200,000 people in Munich, Germany, urging Iranians to continue demonstrating and presenting himself as a potential leader for a democratic transition. The protests have been met with a brutal response, with human rights groups reporting over 7,000 deaths and 53,845 arrests.

Why it matters

The ongoing protests in Iran represent a significant challenge to the country's authoritarian regime, with demonstrators calling for a transition to a secular, democratic government. The international community is closely watching the situation, as a change in power in Tehran could have major geopolitical implications.

The details

Pahlavi, who has lived in exile since the 1979 revolution, used the platform of the Munich Security Conference to rally support for his vision of a 'secular democratic future' for Iran. He called on Iranians both within the country and abroad to continue demonstrating, suggesting coordinated chants from homes and rooftops to amplify the message of dissent. This call to action coincided with demonstrations in cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, Washington, Toronto, Tel Aviv, Lisbon, Sydney, and London.

  • On February 14, 2026, Pahlavi addressed a crowd of approximately 200,000 people in Munich, Germany.
  • The protests gained significant momentum following Pahlavi's address at the Munich Security Conference.

The players

Reza Pahlavi

The exiled son of Iran's last shah, who has advocated for a secular democratic future for Iran and presented himself as a potential leader for a democratic transition.

Human Rights Activists' News Agency

A US-based organization that has reported at least 7,010 deaths and over 53,845 arrests during the protests in Iran.

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What they’re saying

“I am ready to lead Iran towards a secular democratic future.”

— Reza Pahlavi (Munich Security Conference)

What’s next

The United States is preparing for further talks with Iranian government representatives in Geneva, despite President Trump's previous threats of military intervention in support of the protests. These talks will focus on Iran's nuclear program, representing a rare instance of direct communication between the two nations.

The takeaway

The ongoing protests in Iran highlight the deep dissatisfaction with the country's authoritarian regime and the desire for a democratic transition. However, the opposition remains fragmented, and the regime's brutal crackdown has come at a heavy human cost. The international community's response will be crucial in shaping the future of Iran.