Ex-Shah's Son Seeks Role as Iran Protest Leader

The son of Iran's last monarch is trying to become a key voice for protesters. Reza Pahlavi, whose father was overthrown in 1979, lives in exile in the United States. He is now positioning himself as a figure who could help guide Iran toward democracy. Widespread protests have gripped the country for months. These demonstrations began over the death of a young woman in police custody. They have since grown into a major challenge to Iran's ruling system. Pahlavi says he does not seek a return of the monarchy. Instead, he calls for a secular and democratic republic. He urges opposition groups to unite. However, his actual influence inside Iran is unclear. Many protesters are young and were born long after the shah's rule ended. His potential role in Iran's future remains uncertain.