Shah's Son Reza Pahlavi Ready to Lead Iran Amid Escalating Protests

• Reza Pahlavi, son of the last Shah of Iran, declared readiness to lead Iran's transition to democracy amid ongoing protests.
• Pahlavi aims for a peaceful change through a national referendum and a constitutional assembly, advocating for a secular democracy.
• Protests, sparked by rising living costs, began December 28 in Tehran bazaar and spread, with demonstrators chanting "Pahlavi will return."
• At least 27 protesters and some security forces have been killed, making it the most serious unrest since the 2022–2023 Mahsa Amini rallies.
• The current unrest challenges Iran's leadership amidst an economic crisis and the aftermath of a 12-day war against Israel.

Why It Matters: Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last Shah, offers to lead the nation towards democracy amid escalating, deadly protests.