Around 200,000 people gathered in Munich, Germany, on Saturday to protest against the government of Iran, according to police.
The demonstration took place at Theresienwiese fairgrounds, the same location that hosts the annual Oktoberfest. The rally happened as global leaders were meeting nearby for the 62nd Munich Security Conference.
Support for Reza Pahlavi
Many of the protesters were supporters of Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s former shah. Demonstrators waved green, white, and red flags with a lion and sun symbol — the emblem of Iran’s monarchy before it was overthrown in the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Chants such as “Javid Shah” (Long live the Shah) and “Reza II” were heard across the crowd, calling for Pahlavi to play a leadership role in a future political transition in Iran.
Pahlavi, who has lived in exile since his father was removed from power in 1979, addressed the Munich Security Conference earlier and urged international leaders, including US President Donald Trump, to help the Iranian people.
Anger Over Crackdown in Iran
The protest followed reports of deadly repression of nationwide demonstrations in Iran earlier this year. Human rights groups say thousands of protesters were killed during the crackdown.
Many demonstrators in Munich said they wanted the international community to stop negotiating with Tehran’s leadership. They argued that the current government does not represent the Iranian people.
One protester said the world should know that “too many people have been killed and too many people have been injured,” adding that governments should not treat Iran’s leaders as legitimate representatives.
Calls for International Action
Several speakers at the rally called for international support for a transitional government in Iran, followed by a referendum to allow citizens to choose their future leadership.
Similar rallies were also planned in cities including Toronto and Los Angeles.
The large turnout in Munich highlights growing activism among the Iranian diaspora in Europe and North America, as opposition groups seek greater international pressure on Tehran.
