Reza Pahlavi offers to lead Iran's transition during protests

Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last shah and long in exile, has said he is ready to lead a transition amid large anti-government protests; Iranian authorities have blocked his messages inside the country and public support there is unclear.

Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran's last shah, has spoken publicly saying he would lead a political transition as large anti-government protests unfold in Iran. He has addressed Iranians from abroad using social media and Farsi-language outlets. Iranian state media has portrayed him negatively, and authorities have restricted internet access and blocked his messages inside Iran. How much support he commands within the country is difficult to determine. Key points: - Reza Pahlavi has publicly stated he is ready to lead a transition away from clerical rule. - Iranian state media has portrayed him as out of touch or corrupt, and authorities have blocked his messages and limited online access. - He remains in exile and has some diaspora support, while the level of backing inside Iran is unclear. Summary: Officials have restricted communications and state media has criticized Reza Pahlavi. He says he would lead a move toward a secular, democratic system but has not returned to Iran. Undetermined at this time.