Iran’s Streets in Turmoil, Khamenei Preparing to Flee to Russia!

Amid Iran’s intensifying anti-government protests, fresh speculation has emerged surrounding the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to reports by international media outlets, Khamenei is allegedly planning to flee to Russia should the situation further deteriorate. At the same time, rumors suggest that several senior regime officials are attempting to secure French visas for their family members.

The protests, now entering their 13th consecutive day, have spread from Tehran to the religious city of Qom. Protesters are chanting slogans such as “Pahlavi will return” and “Javid Shah” (Long live the King), bringing renewed attention to Iran’s former crown prince, Reza Pahlavi.

Reza Pahlavi, who left Iran at the age of 17 following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has emerged as one of the most recognizable faces of the opposition movement from exile. More than four decades later, the question of whether his royal return is realistic—or merely nostalgia held by a segment of the population—has gained prominence in international political discourse.

As public anger against the current regime reaches a boiling point, Pahlavi has called on Iran’s security forces to stand with the people. Presenting himself as a symbol of unified change, he has repeatedly emphasized that any transformation must come from within Iran. He has also firmly opposed foreign military intervention.

However, opinions differ regarding Pahlavi’s actual level of popular support. Some claim his backing exceeds 80 percent, while German-based research organization GAMAAN estimates support at around 35 percent. Analysts note that while 35 percent represents a significant political base, questions remain as to why he has been unable to facilitate the collapse of the current system over such a long period.

Meanwhile, the position of former U.S. President Donald Trump remains ambiguous. Although he has voiced support for the Iranian people and described Pahlavi as a “good man,” Trump has avoided meeting him directly, calling such a move “inappropriate.” According to Trump, leadership after any political change should be determined by circumstances on the ground.

Analysts further caution that even if the Khamenei administration were to fall, powerful institutions such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia may not easily accept Pahlavi’s return. Ultimately, whether Reza Pahlavi remains a symbol of the past or emerges as a viable future solution for Iran will depend on the outcome of street protests and shifting global geopolitical dynamics.

Source: The Times