Story perspectives

Exiled Crown Prince Urges Iranians to Celebrate Despite Regime Threats

3/18/2026

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Pahlavi Advocates Celebration

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran, highlighted the Persian festival Charshanbeh Suri as a symbol of national pride against the Islamic Republic.
He urged U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to monitor the celebrations for potential violence from the regime.
Khosro Isfahani reported widespread joy among Iranians following U.S.-Israeli strikes, especially after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran confirmed the killing of senior official Ali Larijani in a joint attack, leading Netanyahu to encourage Iranians to celebrate during the Persian New Year festivities.

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Iran Reacts Divided

The U.S. and Israeli strikes triggered mixed reactions in Iran.
Some Iranian citizens expressed gratitude toward the U.S., viewing it as a liberator.
President Donald Trump claimed significant damage to Iran's military capabilities, including the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei.
Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Aragchi, condemned the strikes as illegal and said the U.S. started an unnecessary conflict.
The Pentagon is investigating civilian casualty claims from a recent strike.

History

Historical Context

The Iranian Revolution of 1979 overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy, establishing the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Khomeini. This shift was fueled by widespread discontent with the Shah's regime, exacerbated by the 1953 coup and economic disparities. Recent U.S.-Israeli strikes, including the death of Supreme Leader Khamenei, have reignited national pride among Iranians, potentially reshaping Iran's political landscape and regional dynamics.

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Pahlavi Advocates Celebration

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran, highlighted the Persian festival Charshanbeh Suri as a symbol of national pride against the Islamic Republic.
He urged U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to monitor the celebrations for potential violence from the regime.
Khosro Isfahani reported widespread joy among Iranians following U.S.-Israeli strikes, especially after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran confirmed the killing of senior official Ali Larijani in a joint attack, leading Netanyahu to encourage Iranians to celebrate during the Persian New Year festivities.

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