We, the undersigned, call Upon the UK Government to urgently reassess its position on Iran in light of the unprecedented developments unfolding in 2026. The Iranian people's uprising against the current brutal ruling Islamic regime, followed by the  joint US–Israel strikes of February and March 2026 which targeted Iran’s military infrastructure, nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, and senior leadership, has created a profound political vacuum and destabilising the regime’s already fragile internal structure, proving the need for new leadership within the country, underscoring the severity of the moment.

The Situation in Iran:

Iran entered 2026 amid widespread protests, economic collapse, and deep public dissatisfaction. The regime’s security forces remain loyal, but the population’s demand for fundamental change has only intensified. The recent strikes have further weakened the regime’s authority, disrupted its command structure, and accelerated the debate - both domestically and internationally - about Iran’s political future.

This is a historic turning point. The Iranian people are risking their lives to demand a democratic, secular, and accountable system of governance. Their voices must be central to any international policy decisions.

The Human Cost and the Need for a Democratic Transition:

For years, Iranians have endured repression, economic hardship, and the violent suppression of peaceful dissent. The current regional conflict has magnified their suffering, leaving civilians increasingly vulnerable and without a government capable of safeguarding their rights or representing their interests. In this moment of crisis, the demand for a legitimate, unifying transitional leadership has become urgent and unmistakable.

Why Many Iranians Identify Reza Pahlavi as the People’s Choice

Across Iran and the global Iranian diaspora, many citizens consistently view Reza Pahlavi as the only figure capable of guiding a transitional period that restores stability, dignity, and national sovereignty. Iranian peoples’ support for Mr. Pahlavi has been evident and widely shown through months of protests, not only within Iran, but across the world. He is regarded as a unifying national figure whose support spans generations, ethnic groups, and political backgrounds. His commitment to a secular, democratic system - grounded in human rights and the rule of law - aligns with the aspirations of the Iranian people.

Crucially, he advocates a peaceful transition through a free referendum, ensuring that Iran’s future is determined by its citizens rather than imposed by any individual or foreign power. His record is untainted by violence, factionalism, or collaboration with foreign adversaries, distinguishing him from groups that lack grassroots support or whose histories undermine public trust.

Why UK Recognition and Engagement Are Essential

The United Kingdom has long championed democracy, human rights, and the principle that nations must be free to choose their own future. As Iran faces both internal collapse and the consequences of the 2026 strikes, the UK’s stance carries significant moral and strategic weight. Engaging with a figure who holds genuine public legitimacy strengthens the UK’s alignment with the Iranian people and avoids inadvertently empowering unrepresentative groups.

Our Request to the UK Government

We respectfully call upon His Majesty’s Government to:

- Recognise Reza Pahlavi as the transitional figure many Iranians trust to represent their democratic aspirations during this period of war and national suffering.  

- Engage directly with him and with movements that reflect the will of the Iranian people.  

- Refrain from legitimising groups or individuals who lack domestic support or whose histories undermine public trust.  

- Support a peaceful, democratic transition in Iran that is shaped by its citizens and grounded in their right to self‑determination.

The Iranian people are enduring extraordinary hardship. Their courage, resilience, and clarity of purpose deserve recognition and support from democratic partners. We urge the United Kingdom to stand with them by aligning its policy with the leadership they themselves have chosen, Mr Reza Pahlavi.