Pro-monarchy and pro-democracy protesters gather across Europe in support of Iran
Pro-monarchy and pro-democracy protesters gather across Europe in support of Iran
European cities witness demonstrations for Iran amid US-Israel tensions
On Saturday, March 7, 2026, flags bearing the lion emblem of Iran’s pre-revolutionary monarchy fluttered in European cities as supporters of the Iranian people took to the streets. The rallies coincided with escalating tensions between Iran and its adversaries, with participants expressing solidarity with the nation’s citizens.
Supporters of exiled crown prince rally in Berlin, Stockholm, Paris
Demonstrators in Berlin, Stockholm, and Paris, among others, rallied behind Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last monarch, as a potential leader following the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in an Israeli-American strike. In London, attendees split between those opposing the conflict and those backing Khamenei’s leadership.
Paris demonstrations highlight contrasting views
Two separate gatherings took place in Paris, reflecting divergent perspectives. One group called for Pahlavi to lead a transition, while another condemned the idea. “I support Pahlavi, who advocates for a revolution,” said Masoud Ghanaatian, a 35-year-old student, during a rally in southern Paris. “He’s a democrat. He can oversee a transition and promises to organise elections.”
Yellow vest protesters challenge monarchy
Meanwhile, others in yellow vests carried signs reading “Free Iran” and displayed stickers on their hands with the message “No Shah, no Mullah.” In Stockholm, hundreds gathered to honor Pahlavi and his late father, waving photos of the crown prince alongside pre-revolutionary Iran flags.
Amsterdam protesters demand diplomatic action
In Amsterdam, demonstrators marched along a canal, holding Israeli, American, and pre-revolution Iran flags, and urged the government to invite Pahlavi to the country and shut down the Iranian embassy.
Political rhetoric shapes public sentiment
At an air force base in Fairford, England, anti-war protesters gathered shortly after dawn, displaying signs like “Hands off Iran” and “Yanks go home.” US President Donald Trump pledged to aid Iran’s economic recovery if the nation appoints a successor deemed “acceptable” to him.
“The selection of Iran’s leadership will take place strictly in accordance with our constitutional procedures and solely by the will of the Iranian people, without any foreign interference,” stated Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations.
European protests underscore divided loyalties
The demonstrations revealed a spectrum of opinions, with some advocating for a monarchy-led reform and others pushing for a democratic shift. As the conflict continues, the European gatherings highlight the region’s complex relationship with Iran’s political trajectory.
