For more than three years, Iranians living in Australia have held protests across various cities in solidarity with the Iranian people and in opposition to the oppression by the Islamic Republic.

They have consistently voiced one clear demand: that the Australian government, like some other governments around the world, recognise Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as the leader and representative of the Iranian freedom movement, and support the people of Iran in their fight against the occupying and terrorist regime.

On July 26, 2025, a historic and powerful gathering of Iran’s national opposition was held in Munich, Germany. In this event, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, whom many respectfully refer to as Reza Shah II, stood alongside figures from diverse political groups, civil society activists, artists, and representatives of various Iranian ethnic communities.

Together, they delivered a strong message of unity in diversity toward a free and democratic Iran.

In his speech, Reza Pahlavi said:

‘I don’t need a position to be a father to Iran. The greatest title I could ever receive is the one given to me by the people: Father of Iran.’

This statement reflected a people centered and moral form of leadership, built not on monarchy or power, but on public trust.

He went on to say: ‘It is the duty of Iran’s pro-democracy forces to first create the conditions for free elections. The right to vote will be protected for all. First, we free our country, then we set up the ballot box so that the people can determine their own future.’

Highlighting the need for national unity, he added:

‘We are here to show that despite all our differences religions, beliefs, ethnicities, social classes, and political ideologies from republicans to monarchists we are united in one goal: ending the Islamic Republic and ushering in a new era of freedom, prosperity, and democracy for our beloved Iran.’

Reza Pahlavi also warned: ‘The current state of Iran is nothing like what it could be in a free and flourishing future. The Islamic Republic has brought our land, air, water, sky, lives, and wealth to the brink of destruction.’

Referring to the recent 12-day conflict between the Islamic Republic and Israel, he said: ‘This was not Iran’s war. It was the war of Khamenei and his oppressive and terrorist commanders. Those who chanted threats for years, yet now can’t even defend themselves.’

He further criticised the IRGC: ‘After decades of stealing from the people and funding regional terrorist groups, the IRGC has now lost control of our skies to a much smaller country. The skyrocketing inflation and collapsing economy are a direct result of Ali Khamenei’s corrupt and incompetent leadership.’

Earlier, the New Zealand Parliament had been approached to recognise Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi as the leader of the Iranian opposition as a clear sign of international confidence in his non-partisan and responsible role.

Now, with the strong impact of the Munich summit and growing support from the Iranian diaspora, there is a growing call for the Australian government to officially recognise Reza Pahlavi as the legitimate representative of the Iranian people’s movement.

Such a step would align with Australia’s long-standing values support for freedom, democracy, and human rights.

Leila Naseri: Author | Composer | Social Monarchy Activist