Reza Pahlavi
Crown Prince of Iran - Advocate for Democracy and Freedom
Full Name: Reza Pahlavi
Born: October 31, 1960
Place of Birth: Tehran, Iran
Title: Crown Prince of Iran
Biography
Reza Pahlavi, born on October 31, 1960, in Tehran, Iran, is the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi and Empress Farah Diba. He was officially proclaimed Crown Prince of Iran in 1967 during his father's coronation ceremony, making him the heir to the Peacock Throne.
At the age of 17, in 1978, Reza Pahlavi moved to the United States to receive pilot training at Reese Air Force Base in Texas. Shortly after, the Iranian Revolution erupted, and his family left Iran in January 1979, marking the beginning of his life in exile.
Despite the upheaval, he continued his education and earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Southern California (USC) in 1985. Since then, he has dedicated his life to advocating for democracy, human rights, and freedom for the Iranian people.
Early Life and Education
Birth in Tehran
Born on October 31, 1960, in Tehran, Iran, as the eldest son of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi and Empress Farah Diba.
Proclaimed Crown Prince
Officially named Crown Prince of Iran during his father's coronation ceremony, becoming the heir to the Iranian throne.
Military Training in the United States
At age 17, moved to the United States to receive pilot training at Reese Air Force Base in Texas.
Iranian Revolution and Exile
Following the Islamic Revolution, his family left Iran in January 1979. Reza Pahlavi has lived in exile ever since.
University Education
Earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Southern California (USC).
Personal Life
Family
Spouse: Yasmine Etemad-Amini (married June 12, 1986)
Children:
- Princess Noor Pahlavi (born April 3, 1992)
- Princess Iman Pahlavi (born September 12, 1993)
- Princess Farah Pahlavi (born January 17, 2004)
All three daughters are named as his heirs under his public statements.
Advocacy for Democracy and Human Rights
Since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Reza Pahlavi has been a prominent voice for change in Iran. Living primarily in the United States, he has dedicated his life to advocating for a secular, democratic government in Iran.
Democratic Governance
Advocates for a secular, democratic form of governance where the Iranian people can choose their future through free and fair elections.
Human Rights
Emphasizes the importance of protecting human rights, freedom of speech, and civil liberties for all Iranians.
National Referendum
Proposes that Iranians should decide through a referendum whether they prefer a republic or a constitutional monarchy.
International Relations
Envisions a future Iran that engages constructively with the international community and resolves regional conflicts peacefully.
Role in Iran's Movement for Change
During the mass protests that began in Iran in late 2025 and continued into 2026, Reza Pahlavi gained renewed international attention. He has been actively supporting protesters, calling for peaceful strikes, and advocating for political reform and regime change.
Supporting Protesters
Consistently voiced support for Iranian citizens demanding freedom, justice, and democratic reforms.
International Advocacy
Engaged with international media and political leaders to raise awareness about the situation in Iran and the aspirations of the Iranian people.
Vision for Future Iran
Outlined a comprehensive vision including abandoning nuclear weapons development, combating drug trafficking, normalizing regional relations, and expanding energy exports.
Contributions to Iranian Cause
Voice for the Voiceless
Served as an international spokesperson for Iranians seeking freedom and democracy, amplifying their voices on global platforms.
Building Unity
Worked to unite various opposition groups and movements under a common goal of establishing a free and democratic Iran.
Educational Outreach
Engaged in extensive educational efforts to inform the international community about Iran's history, culture, and the aspirations of its people.
International Diplomacy
Maintained relationships with world leaders and organizations to ensure Iran's democratic movement receives international support and recognition.
Inspiring Hope
Provided hope and inspiration to millions of Iranians both inside Iran and in the diaspora, symbolizing the possibility of a better future.
Advocating for Justice
Consistently called for accountability for human rights violations and justice for victims of oppression in Iran.
Legacy and Influence
Reza Pahlavi represents continuity with Iran's pre-revolutionary past while advocating for a modern, democratic future. His commitment to non-violence, democratic principles, and human rights has earned him respect among many Iranians and international observers.
As a symbol of hope for millions of Iranians seeking change, he continues to work tirelessly for a day when Iran can be free, prosperous, and at peace with itself and the world.
"The future of Iran belongs to the Iranian people. They alone must decide their destiny through free and democratic means." — Reza Pahlavi