Iranian opposition figure Prince Reza Pahlavi has said opponents of the Islamic Republic are “more experienced, more united and more determined than ever” as he called for continued efforts to challenge the government.
Pahlavi made the remarks on Saturday at the second edition of the “Cyrus the Great” event in Toronto, Canada, attended by thousands of Iranian supporters and members of the Iranian diaspora.
He said conditions had changed significantly since January, when the Iranian government launched a crackdown on anti-government protests.
According to Pahlavi, the Islamic Republic, believing that its collapse was imminent, committed what he described as “one of the greatest crimes in history” during the crackdown.
He said the opposition’s work in the year leading up to the January protests had been based on a five-part strategy that remains central to its efforts.
Pahlavi said the strategy includes supporting protesters inside Iran, organising opposition forces, encouraging defections within the government, managing a transition and preparing for the period after the Islamic Republic.
He also said the opposition had become more coordinated despite attempts by the Iranian government to portray it as divided and without a clear plan.
Pahlavi said opponents of the Islamic Republic shared principles including Iran’s territorial integrity, separation of religion and government, individual freedoms and equality before the law.
He said the future form of government should ultimately be determined by Iranians through a free vote.
The opposition figure has previously advocated a transition towards a secular and democratic system in Iran, while saying that the Iranian people should determine the country’s future.
Pahlavi, the eldest son of Iran’s last Shah, has become a prominent figure among opponents of the Islamic Republic living inside and outside Iran.
Pahlavi said the movement had learned from previous protests and was now better prepared to pursue its objectives.