Pro-Shah supporters split over Pahlavi’s defense of Israeli attacks
Srinagar, Jan 11: Reza Pahlavi, the eldest son of Iran’s last Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, has triggered a fresh wave of controversy following his appearance on the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg Show, where he openly defended Israeli airstrikes on Iran, arguing that they weaken the Islamic Republic and are welcomed by many Iranians opposed to the current regime.
Pahlavi framed the attacks as a strategic opportunity for regime change, a position that has drawn sharp criticism for seemingly endorsing foreign military action even as it exposes the Iranian populace to continued strikes. Critics argue that his remarks reflect a willingness to overlook the human cost of escalation in pursuit of political ambition.
The comments have not only intensified debate within Iran’s broader opposition circles but have also exposed visible cracks among pro-Shah supporters themselves. Many who once rallied around Pahlavi are now questioning his approach, viewing his overt alignment with Israel as a sign of desperation for power rather than a principled stance rooted in national sovereignty.
Responding to the backlash, Pahlavi sought to clarify that Israeli strikes were aimed at regime-linked threats and strategic facilities, not civilians. However, his explanation has done little to quell concerns, particularly amid an already volatile Israel-Iran confrontation involving sensitive nuclear sites and key regime infrastructure.
The episode underscores the deep divisions within Iran’s opposition landscape, highlighting the growing unease over external military interventions being projected as instruments of internal political change.
