On Sunday, January 11, over two thousand people gathered at Place Victor-Hugo in Paris to support the Iranian people and advocate for the 'deislamisation' of Iran. Many young participants displayed flags of the former imperial regime and portraits of Reza Pahlavi, son of the last shah. The event unfolded in a serene atmosphere, featuring songs and calls for monarchy.
The rally began at 3 p.m. at Place Victor-Hugo in Paris's 16th arrondissement. The square gradually filled with 'Lion and Sun' flags, the emblem of royal Persia abolished by the Islamic Republic in 1980. The mostly young participants sang La Marseillaise, followed by a moment of reflection where a voice shouted 'Long live the king!'.
A woman standing on a float took the microphone to address the crowd, though the exact words were not detailed. The demonstrators aimed to show solidarity with Iranians facing regime repression, advocating for a transition away from political Islamism. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled opposition figure, was central to the tributes, with many holding his portraits.
This gathering fits into broader international support for the Iranian people, with similar events in London, Vienna, and Sydney. In Paris, the mood was peaceful, contrasting with ongoing tensions in Iran where anti-regime protests continue. Organizers emphasized the need not to look away from the Iranian situation.
