171 monarchist prisoners and activists back Prince Reza Pahlavi

171 monarchist political activists and political prisoners inside Iran have signed a joint statement declaring their support for Prince Reza Pahlavi and his role in uniting the opponents of the Islamic Republic. The statement was released on Saturday, 24 October 2026, and was written to mark three symbolic days of the month of Aban: 26 October, the birthday of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi; 29 October, the day honouring Cyrus the Great; and 31 October, the birthday of Prince Reza Pahlavi.

The signatories, some of whom are held in the Islamic Republic's prisons, addressed the statement to Prince Reza Pahlavi and thanked him for his years of effort for Iran's freedom. One part of the statement says that from behind prison walls they are grateful for his years of effort, steadfastness and clear voice for the freedom of Iran.

The message of monarchist political prisoners

The signatories say that prison, separation from their families and political pressure have not destroyed their hope for Iran's future. In the statement they back Prince Reza Pahlavi's leadership in bringing together the opponents of the Islamic Republic and express the hope for a day when no Iranian is imprisoned for their beliefs and people live without fear and repression. The names of the signatories were not included in the published reports.

Aban: a month of national symbols

The statement comes as the Islamic Republic has stepped up its security measures in recent weeks with checkpoints, deployments of security forces and slowed internet in various cities, including in the run-up to the anniversary of the November 2019 protests. Earlier, Prince Reza Pahlavi's media office had released videos of slogans written by the Javidan Guard on the streets of Iran, showing that supporters of the monarchy inside the country are making their presence felt despite the repression.

Meanwhile, the invitation of Prince Reza Pahlavi to the Belgian parliament and a letter of protest by a number of organisations to the country's foreign minister have stirred debate this week. Prince Reza Pahlavi also recently called, in an article in Le Figaro, on the candidates in France's presidential election to commit to four pledges for the freedom of the Iranian people.

171 activists and political prisoners inside Iran declared their solidarity with Prince Reza Pahlavi's leadership in the month of his birthday.