'False prophet of our time': Iran's exiled prince Reza Pahlavi slams Khamenei's 'illegitimate' regime; urges Shias to 'reclaim faith'
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 20, 2026
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Iran’s exiled prince Reza Pahlavi has delivered a scathing critique of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accusing the Islamic Republic of betraying Shia Islam while imposing hardship on its people. In a direct appeal to Iran’s Shia population, Pahlavi urged them to reclaim their faith and stand against what he called Khamenei's "illegitimate regime." He described the leader as a "false prophet," criticizing the clerical establishment for using religion to justify violence and repression, including acts of brutality during past uprisings. Pahlavi’s message comes amid growing unrest in Iran, where widespread protests over economic hardship have evolved into a significant challenge to the Islamic Republic.
The prince highlighted how the regime has exploited Shia Islam to maintain power, turning mosques into tools of repression and perpetuating crimes under the guise of religious authority. He emphasized that the faith should remain a personal and non-political practice, calling on Shias to resist the Velayat-e Faqih system enforced by Khamenei. Pahlavi also extended solidarity with Sunni minorities and other religious groups, urging unity against the regime. His appeal reflects the broader sentiment among Iranians seeking an end to political Islam's influence over their faith.
Pahlavi’s remarks come as Iran faces unprecedented turmoil, with 2025-2026 protests marking one of the largest waves of unrest in recent years. Demonstrations have targeted symbols of the Islamic Republic, with citizens expressing anger over inflation, economic hardship, and political repression. International figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, have voiced support for Iran’s protesters, signaling potential shifts in global perceptions of the regime.
This situation underscores the Islamic Republic's fragile hold on power and the growing desire among Iranians to reclaim their faith and freedom from what Pahlavi terms a "criminal" regime. As tensions rise, the outcome could reshape Iran’s political landscape and reverberate across the Middle East, making it a critical issue for global observers.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/20/2026