Advocating for Dialogue Over War: A Vision for a Democratic Iran

Advocating for Dialogue Over War: A Vision for a Democratic IranIn an era of escalating tensions in the Middle East, the path forward must prioritize dialogue over conflict. I stand firmly for dialogue—not war—with Iran, among Iranians, and with the global community. This approach is essential to foster genuine change, ensuring that any steps toward democracy are owned by Iranians themselves, rather than imposed from outside.The Role of the Iranian Diaspora in Championing DemocracyThe Iranian diaspora represents a powerful force for change, free from the oppressive structures that plague Iran itself. There is no Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) or Basij militia in the diaspora; instead, it is a space for open expression and action. The diaspora must take to the streets in capitals and cities worldwide, marching for democracy and freedom, as seen recently in Berlin and London.
Should military intervention ever become necessary, it cannot be perceived as an American imposition. Democracy must be an Iranian project from the outset. The United States, as the only power capable of providing significant support, would merely step in to assist. Iranian ownership is crucial at every stage to ensure legitimacy and sustainability.Expanding Dialogue: From Bilateral to Multilateral EngagementDialogue with Iran should begin bilaterally, but if that fails, it must expand to multilateral forums. Iran's aggressive posture extends beyond Israel to its other neighbors, such as the UAE and Qatar, which face threats when the regime senses pressure from the U.S. This mirrors the regime's treatment of its own citizens: comply or face repression.
The Islamic Republic's stance on Palestine is equally revealing. It has never supported a two-state solution or peaceful coexistence. Instead, Palestine serves as a strategic beachhead for attacks aimed at Israel's destruction—a position openly declared and heavily funded.
Hamas, as the regime's proxy in Gaza, embodies this tyranny. Its methods, both historically and presently, reflect the same coercive tactics used against Iranians and neighbors alike.The Roots of Tyranny: A Critique of IslamAt the heart of this tyranny lies Islam itself—a fact many are reluctant to confront. The Islamic Republic's oppression of its population, neighbors, and even Palestinians stems from Islamic doctrines. For those seeking evidence of an active spiritual evil, Islam provides it. Its spread, including to Iran, was through conquest: convert or die. Today, Iran remains Muslim under the same threat: stay faithful or face death. This is not the way of a benevolent God but of deception.
Most Muslims view Allah as the compassionate creator, yet Allah is not God. God is omnipotent and enters human history; Allah does not. Islam, I argue, is a construct of the Devil, designed for those who reject atheism but can be misled. It attacks the foundations of true faiths: denying Judaism by calling for the death of Jews, and undermining Christianity by rejecting the crucifixion and resurrection.
Islam distorts core concepts—God, paradise, Judgment Day, and even death, promoting a love of death that is antithetical to genuine religion. The greatest deception is Muhammad himself. Historical records show no verifiable prophecies attributed to him, unlike true prophets.Envisioning a Democratic Iran with Religious FreedomThe democratic republic of Iran I envision embraces freedom of religion. Individuals may choose to become Muslim without coercion, and there should be no penalties for rejecting or leaving Islam. This ethos must begin in the Iranian diaspora now, through open dialogue about Islam's role in tyranny. The Ayatollah is not the root cause; he is enslaved to deeper spiritual forces. True liberation requires addressing this spiritual tyranny.Global Involvement: Opportunities Through DialogueDialogue offers immense potential. Involve Russia—Putin, an Orthodox Christian who affirms the crucifixion and resurrection, could engage the Ayatollah on these matters, though the regime's rigidity has historically blocked such exchanges. The Ayatollah's worldview is unyielding, fixated on tyranny, death, and destruction.
China, too, stands to gain. The economic instability it fears from the Islamic Republic would dissipate with a democratic Iran, creating a vibrant trading partner. China's merchant class would thrive in such an environment.
Existing diplomatic channels—mid-level talks between Iran and neighbors like the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait—should be fully exploited. Engagement itself is progress; use it to set agendas, reason, and broaden discussions. Even if war looms, exhaustive efforts at dialogue must precede it—not as a formality, but as a sincere attempt to reason.
Iran differs from cases like Venezuela; it requires a full regime collapse, not a swift operation. The diaspora must lead visibly, marching for democracy worldwide to underscore Iranian agency.
In conclusion, dialogue is the antidote to war and tyranny. It must permeate every level—from the diaspora confronting Islam's role to global powers engaging the regime. Only through such comprehensive efforts can a free, democratic Iran emerge, owned by its people and beneficial to the world.

The Role and Impact of Iranian Diaspora ProtestsThe Iranian diaspora plays a pivotal role in advocating for democracy and freedom in Iran, serving as a vocal extension of the domestic resistance against the Islamic Republic's regime. Free from the direct threats of the IRGC or Basij militia, diaspora communities organize marches and rallies in major global cities to amplify calls for regime change, human rights, and a secular democratic republic. These protests not only raise international awareness but also foster unity among Iranians abroad, emphasizing that change must be an Iranian-led project. Recent demonstrations, particularly in Europe, highlight this momentum, drawing thousands and sometimes tens of thousands of participants despite harsh weather and occasional counter-protests. Recent Examples in Berlin and LondonIn early 2026, the Iranian diaspora has been particularly active in Berlin and London, organizing large-scale rallies in solidarity with ongoing uprisings in Iran. These events often coincide with significant anniversaries, such as the 1979 revolution, and feature chants rejecting both monarchical restoration and theocratic rule, while promoting a democratic alternative. For instance, on February 7, 2026, thousands gathered in Berlin to express solidarity with Iran's protests, calling for regime change without war and highlighting the regime's crackdowns. Estimates varied, with some reports indicating up to 80,000 participants waving Iranian flags and banners at Brandenburg Gate. Protesters, including exiles from across Europe, emphasized themes like "Woman, Life, Freedom" and denounced the regime's tyranny.

Similarly, in London, a rally on January 31, 2026, saw members of the diaspora voicing opposition to the government's crackdowns, with emotional displays of anger and calls for international support. Clashes occurred during a January 16, 2026, protest, leading to injuries and arrests, including assaults on police and protesters. One dramatic incident involved a protester ripping down the Iranian flag at the embassy, symbolizing defiance against the regime.

To provide a clearer overview, here is a summary of key recent diaspora protests in these cities:

Date	Location	Estimated Attendees	Key Themes/Slogans	Notable Details
January 10, 2026	Berlin	Thousands	Secular Iran, democracy	Demonstrations against the Islamic regime, with broad ethnic participation.
January 13, 2026	London (and Berlin, Paris)	Hundreds to thousands	Solidarity with Iran protests, return of Reza Pahlavi or European support	Calls for more EU involvement in supporting Iranian uprisings.
January 16, 2026	London	Thousands	Regime crackdown opposition	Violent clashes with injuries and 14 arrests.
January 31, 2026	London	Not specified	Opposition to crackdowns	Central London rally focusing on human rights.
February 7, 2026	Berlin	Up to 100,000+	No to Shah, no to Mullahs; Democratic Republic	Massive turnout defying cold, with political figures; chants for regime change.

These protests underscore the diaspora's commitment to non-violent advocacy, often facing harassment from pro-regime or unrelated groups, such as pro-Palestinian counter-protesters in London. Women have played leading roles in organizing, reflecting the gender dynamics of Iran's domestic movements. Broader European rallies in 2026 have seen participation from diverse communities, with Germany hosting the most events—27 rallies in just ten days in January. Significance and Broader ContextDiaspora protests are crucial for maintaining global pressure on the regime, especially amid Iran's internet blackouts and massacres during the 2025–2026 protests. They promote Iranian ownership of democratic change, rejecting external impositions while seeking supportive alliances. Many rallies support figures like Maryam Rajavi or Reza Pahlavi, but a common thread is the call for a democratic republic with religious freedom. As the regime's end appears nearer, these gatherings build unprecedented solidarity, turning exile into a force for liberation.

Key Figures in the Iranian Diaspora ProtestsThe 2026 Iranian diaspora protests have been galvanized by a diverse array of exiled leaders, activists, and public figures who advocate for regime change, democracy, and human rights in Iran. These individuals, often based in the US, Europe, or elsewhere, have used their platforms to amplify domestic unrest, organize international rallies, and call for global intervention against the Islamic Republic's crackdown. While there is no single centralized leadership, prominent voices span monarchists, human rights advocates, opposition group leaders, and celebrities. Below is an overview of key figures, highlighting their backgrounds, roles, and contributions to the movement.Reza PahlaviReza Pahlavi, the exiled Crown Prince and son of Iran's last Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, has emerged as the most prominent figure in the diaspora protests. Based in the United States, he advocates for a secular, democratic Iran determined by referendum, rejecting a direct return to monarchy but symbolizing nationalistic resistance for many. Pahlavi has been vocal in supporting protesters, urging them to maintain street control, set up barricades, and join unified demonstrations. He has called for international military intervention to protect civilians and endorsed global "days of action" in cities like Munich, Toronto, and Los Angeles. His popularity is evident in chants of "Javid Shah" (Long Live the King) at rallies, though support varies among ethnic minorities. Surveys indicate about one-third of Iranians strongly back him, with his influence growing amid the regime's weakening.

Maryam RajaviMaryam Rajavi, co-leader of the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK) and president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, represents a leftist-Islamic opposition faction in exile. Based in France, she has condemned the regime's crackdowns, warning security forces of future accountability in a free Iran. Rajavi has praised protesters for instilling fear in the regime and has been a key organizer of diaspora events. However, her group faces criticism from monarchists and others for its ideological roots, leading to schisms within the opposition. Despite this, she remains influential among certain segments of the diaspora.

Shirin EbadiShirin Ebadi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and human rights lawyer exiled since 2009, has been a staunch critic of the regime's violence. She condemned security forces for shooting unarmed protesters and called for international intervention to halt the bloodshed. Ebadi's advocacy focuses on human rights violations, and her voice carries weight in global forums, bridging diaspora efforts with international diplomacy. Her calls align with broader pleas for foreign support amid the protests' high death toll.

Masih AlinejadMasih Alinejad, a prominent women's rights activist and journalist living in exile in the US, has mobilized global attention through campaigns like "My Stealthy Freedom" against compulsory hijab laws. During the 2026 protests, she urged US intervention to disrupt the regime's infrastructure and protect demonstrators. Alinejad's social media presence amplifies voices from inside Iran, making her a key connector between domestic unrest and diaspora advocacy.

Other Notable Figures

• Abdullah Mohtadi: Leader of the Komala Party of Iranian Kurdistan, advocating for ethnic minority rights and calling for regime collapse through intervention.
• Googoosh and Nazanin Boniadi: Celebrities using their fame to rally support; Googoosh, a music icon, and Boniadi, an actress, have spoken out against repression amid internet blackouts.
• Narges Mohammadi: Another Nobel laureate, though some diaspora voices argue she does not fully represent the protesters' anti-regime sentiment.

These figures highlight the fragmented yet united front against the Islamic Republic. While ideological divides exist—e.g., between monarchists like Pahlavi's supporters and groups like the MEK— their collective calls for intervention and democracy underscore Iranian ownership of the movement.

Figure	Background	Key Contributions	Faction/Affiliation
Reza Pahlavi	Exiled Crown Prince, US-based	Calls for unified protests, intervention; symbolic leader for regime change	Monarchist/nationalist
Maryam Rajavi	MEK co-leader, France-based	Warnings to security forces; organizing resistance	Leftist-Islamic opposition
Shirin Ebadi	Nobel laureate, lawyer	Condemns violence; advocates human rights and intervention	Human rights advocate
Masih Alinejad	Journalist, activist, US-based	Campaigns against hijab laws; urges US action	Women's rights
Abdullah Mohtadi	Kurdish party leader	Ethnic rights advocacy; calls for collapse	Kurdish opposition

Reza Pahlavi's Strategy for Regime Change in IranReza Pahlavi, the exiled Crown Prince of Iran and son of the last Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, has positioned himself as a leading figure in the opposition to the Islamic Republic. Living in the United States since the 1979 revolution, he advocates for a secular, democratic Iran determined by popular referendum. His strategy, developed over decades but intensified amid the 2025–2026 protests (dubbed the "Lion and Sun Revolution"), focuses on unifying Iranians, mobilizing protests, facilitating a peaceful transition, and securing international support to topple the regime. This approach emphasizes Iranian self-determination while rejecting direct power grabs, though critics argue it risks centralizing authority. Below is an exploration of his strategy, drawing from his public statements, plans, and actions.1. Unifying the Opposition and Building a Broad CoalitionPahlavi's strategy begins with fostering unity among Iran's fragmented opposition, including ethnic minorities, political ideologies (from left to right), and diaspora groups. He views division as the regime's greatest weapon and has convened large gatherings to bridge gaps.

• Key Initiatives:
  • In July 2025, he hosted the largest gathering of Iranian dissidents in Munich, uniting monarchists, republicans, and regional representatives around four core principles: preserving Iran's territorial integrity, individual freedoms and equality, secular democracy (separation of religion and state), and the people's right to choose their government form.
  • This led to the launch of the Iran Prosperity Project (IPP), a blueprint for rebuilding Iran post-regime, covering political transition, economic stability, security reform, and resource management (e.g., energy and water).
  • He established a defections platform to encourage regime insiders (e.g., military and security forces) to switch sides, with tens of thousands signing up by late 2025.
• Rationale: Pahlavi argues that a united front under a national flag (the pre-1979 Lion and Sun) counters regime attempts at division. In a February 2026 post, he praised protesters for embodying "solidarity, empathy, and national unity" across dialects, religions, and regions.

2. Mobilizing Protests and Domestic PressureA cornerstone of Pahlavi's strategy is escalating non-violent but disruptive actions inside Iran to weaken the regime's control.

• Calls to Action:
  • He has urged nationwide strikes, particularly by petroleum workers (echoing 1978 tactics that crippled the economy), and encouraged taking and holding central streets.
  • In January 2026, he declared a "new phase of the national uprising," targeting regime propaganda institutions and communication apparatuses as "legitimate targets." He called on state employees and security forces to defect or face "lasting shame."
  • Recent efforts include the Iran Rising website, launched in late 2025, to scale the movement with millions signing up for coordinated actions.
• Response to Repression: Amid reports of over 35,000 protester deaths, Pahlavi emphasizes resilience, warning that internet blackouts should trigger more street takeovers. He uses satellite tech like Starlink and networks like Iran International to maintain communication.
• Global Mobilization: For the diaspora, he promotes "Global Days of Action," such as February 14, 2026, to pressure international communities. Demands include breaking the regime's repression machine, protecting protesters, and recognizing a transitional government under his leadership.

3. Transition Plan: From Emergency to DemocracyPahlavi positions himself as a "caretaker" leader for a transitional period, not a permanent ruler. His roadmap aims for a swift shift to democracy, avoiding chaos.

• Emergency Phase Booklet (2024–2025): Released in 2024 and updated, this 100–180-day plan post-regime collapse establishes interim institutions resembling legislative, executive, and judicial branches under a unified leader. It focuses on stabilizing essential services, reforming the military, and preparing for elections.
  • Promises a referendum within four months on restoring monarchy or establishing a parliamentary republic.
  • Critics, like the Free Iran Scholars Network, argue it concentrates power under an unelected leader, postponing pluralism and risking authoritarianism.
• Post-Transition Vision: End military nuclear programs, normalize relations (e.g., with Oman and Israel), and promote economic vibrancy. Pahlavi envisions a "free Iran" as a regional stabilizer, rejecting the regime's "confrontation doctrine."

4. Securing International SupportPahlavi's strategy relies on external backing to amplify domestic efforts, framing regime change as beneficial for global security.

• Diplomatic Efforts: He has intensified outreach, contributing to UN snapback sanctions and meeting figures like UK MPs and EU officials. In a January 2026 Washington Post op-ed, he outlined his plan and vision.
• Calls for Intervention: Urges targeted strikes on IRGC command centers to protect protesters, financial aid for strikers, and recognition of a transitional government. He rejects deals with the regime, stating the "only acceptable deal is one in which the Islamic Republic surrenders to the people of Iran."
• US Focus: In interviews (e.g., with Hugh Hewitt in February 2026), he discusses US aid for freedom and economic ties with a free Iran.

Challenges and Criticisms

• Support Base: Popular among diaspora and some protesters (chants of "Javid Shah"), but limited inside Iran due to generational gaps and ethnic concerns. Surveys show about one-third strong backing.
• Risks: Reliance on foreign intervention could undermine legitimacy, and the plan's emergency powers raise dictatorship fears.
• Regime Resilience: Protests have weakened the regime, but containment tactics (repression, economic signals) persist.

Recent Developments (as of February 11, 2026)

• Preparing for February 14 Global Day of Action, urging unity and discipline.
• Arabic outreach to neighbors like Oman, promising restored ties.
• Emphasizing faith in victory: "This time, the world will stand with you."

Pahlavi's strategy is pragmatic yet ambitious, blending internal mobilization with external leverage. Success hinges on sustained protests, defections, and global action, potentially reshaping the Middle East.

Maryam Rajavi's Strategy for Regime Change in IranMaryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and leader of the People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (MEK), has been a central figure in the Iranian opposition since the 1980s. Exiled in France, she advocates for a secular, democratic republic in Iran, emphasizing that change must come from within through organized resistance rather than foreign intervention. Her strategy, refined amid the 2025–2026 uprisings (which she describes as a "decisive phase" with over 40,000 protester deaths), focuses on empowering Iranians to overthrow the Islamic Republic while outlining a clear path to democracy. This approach rejects both appeasement of the regime and external war, positioning the NCRI as the guarantor of a stable transition.

1. The "Third Option": Regime Change by IraniansRajavi's core strategy is the "Third Option," introduced over two decades ago: regime change driven by the Iranian people and their organized resistance, without reliance on foreign military action or negotiations with the regime. She argues that the Islamic Republic cannot be reformed—its constitution embeds terrorism and fundamentalism—and that spontaneous collapse is unlikely. Instead, change requires a "combat-ready resistance" capable of confronting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Rajavi emphasizes Iranian agency: "Regime change can only be achieved by the Iranian people themselves." This rejects U.S. or Western-led interventions, focusing on internal forces while seeking international support to remove obstacles like sanctions relief for the regime. 2. Organized Resistance and Domestic MobilizationRajavi's plan relies on the MEK's "Resistance Units"—networks of activists inside Iran that organize protests, document abuses, and amplify calls for regime change. These units transform localized grievances into a nationwide movement, commemorating martyrs and promoting her vision. She warns regime forces of future accountability, urging defections to avoid "lasting shame." In the 2025–2026 protests, Rajavi hailed the "Uprising Army" of freedom fighters, noting the uprising's organization and explicit goal of overthrow as distinguishing it from prior waves. The NCRI unites diverse opposition groups, including ethnic minorities, under principles like territorial integrity and secular democracy. Rajavi promotes unity among all nationalities, advocating a federal system for justice. 3. Ten-Point Plan for a Democratic IranPresented in 2006 and reiterated amid recent events, this blueprint outlines Rajavi's vision for post-regime Iran: a non-nuclear, secular republic with equality and freedoms. It has garnered U.S. congressional support and is seen as a "powerful political tool" for transition.

Point	Description
1. Universal suffrage and free elections	Pluralistic system based on popular vote.
2. Freedom of speech and assembly	Abolish censorship and dismantle repression apparatus.
3. Separation of religion and state	Reject compulsory religion; freedom for all beliefs.
4. Gender equality	Full rights in political, social, cultural, and economic spheres; abolish discriminatory laws.
5. Ethnic and national equality	Autonomy within Iran's integrity; federal system for diversity.
6. Abolition of death penalty	Humane penal code aligned with international standards.
7. Market economy	Equal opportunity, employment, environmental protection.
8. Peaceful foreign policy	Based on coexistence, international peace, and regional cooperation.
9. Non-nuclear Iran	Reject nuclear weapons and WMDs.
10. Judicial independence	Independent judges, right to defense, public trials.

4. Transition RoadmapPost-overthrow, Rajavi envisions a six-month provisional government led by the NCRI to stabilize the country and organize free elections for a constituent assembly. This assembly would draft a constitution and hold legislative elections, ensuring a "clean break" to democracy without chaos. Key steps include dissolving the IRGC, reviving human rights, and normalizing relations. Rajavi stresses a "democratic alternative with a clear structure" to avoid power vacuums. 5. Response to the 2025–2026 UprisingsRajavi has framed the protests as a "turning point," with the regime's mass killings (premeditated, per classified documents) accelerating its downfall. In op-eds and speeches (e.g., Berlin rally on February 7, 2026), she declared the "countdown to overthrow has begun," linking it to the 1979 revolution. She calls for recognizing protesters' right to self-defense against the IRGC. 6. International AdvocacyRajavi urges global powers to designate the IRGC as terrorists, expel diplomats, and support the resistance without direct involvement. In interviews and conferences (e.g., Berlin, February 2026), she critiques Western delays, which she says prolonged suffering. She seeks accountability for regime crimes and backs sanctions, arguing a democratic Iran would stabilize the region. 7. Challenges and CriticismsThe MEK faces controversy, including ideological divides with other opposition factions (e.g., monarchists) and accusations of cult-like structure. Support is strong among some diaspora but limited inside Iran due to regime propaganda. Critics warn of "fake alternatives" amplified by AI, but Rajavi insists on elections as the benchmark. Despite repression, she claims the regime's "strategic failures" make overthrow inevitable. As of February 11, 2026, Rajavi's strategy positions the NCRI as a ready alternative, with recent events like the Berlin conference underscoring momentum toward a democratic Iran.