Payam Javan: Around 200,000 people demonstrated in Munich on Saturday against Iran’s government, according to police estimates, coinciding with the Munich Security Conference attended by world leaders. The rally followed a call by Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi for increased international pressure on Tehran and was part of what he described as a “global day of action” in support of Iranians amid deadly nationwide protests.
Protesters marched near the conference venue, chanting slogans calling for regime change while beating drums and waving pre-1979 Iranian flags bearing the lion and sun emblem. The turnout, reported by German news agency DPA, exceeded organizers’ expectations and reflected growing international mobilization among members of the Iranian diaspora.
Speaking at a news conference, Pahlavi warned that further bloodshed in Iran was likely if democratic nations failed to act. He urged global leaders to stand with the Iranian people, arguing that the survival of Iran’s current leadership sends a dangerous message to authoritarian governments worldwide. Pahlavi, who has lived in exile for nearly five decades, has increasingly positioned himself as a potential figure in Iran’s political future.
Many demonstrators wore red “Make Iran Great Again” caps and carried placards supporting Pahlavi, while others called broadly for democracy. Participants said the protests aimed to amplify the voices of Iranians inside the country, where internet blackouts and repression have limited communication with the outside world. Smaller solidarity rallies were also reported in cities including Nicosia, Los Angeles, and Toronto.
Meanwhile, the death toll from last month’s unrest remains disputed. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported at least 7,005 deaths, while Iran’s government has acknowledged 3,117 fatalities. Independent verification has been difficult due to severe restrictions on internet access. The demonstrations come amid renewed pressure on Tehran from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has openly suggested that regime change in Iran would be desirable.
