Pahlavi Declares Islamic Republic 'Finished' After Khamenei's Death

On Saturday, Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last Shah, welcomed reports of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, declaring that the Islamic Republic is "finished." He emphasized the need for caution against any attempts to appoint a successor to Khamenei. Pahlavi urged members of Iran's security apparatus not to support the regime, which he described as collapsing.

He positioned himself as a potential transitional figure, although he acknowledged that he does not command unanimous support among opposition groups. Pahlavi called on citizens to remain alert and vigilant, signaling a broader mobilization following Khamenei's death.

He also invoked Iran's pre-Islamic Zoroastrian heritage in his message, highlighting a cultural connection to the past.