Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi was hit with red liquid on Thursday in Berlin. The episode unfolded just minutes after Pahlavi criticised the ceasefire between the United States and Iran. It took place outside Germany’s federal press conference building, where Pahlavi had just addressed reporters. As he exited, a person threw a red liquid that splashed across the back of his blazer and neck.
German police said the suspect’s identity has not been released due to privacy laws. The individual was taken into custody immediately after the incident. They later said the substance appeared to be tomato juice, while Pahlavi’s team described it as tomato sauce.
Despite that, Pahlavi appeared composed. He waved to supporters gathered nearby before entering a waiting car and leaving the scene. He was unharmed in the attack.
PAHLAVI QUESTIONS CEASEFIRE LOGIC
Earlier at the briefing, Pahlavi had strongly criticised the ceasefire agreement. “You’re going to deal with people who all of a sudden have become pragmatists,” he said. “I don’t see that happening.”
“I’m not saying that diplomacy should not be given a chance, but I think diplomacy has been given enough chance.”
Pahlavi, 65, has positioned himself as a potential alternative voice for Iran’s future, even though he has lived in exile since the 1979 revolution that ousted his father, the former shah.
WHY PAHLAVI IS IN GERMANY
Pahlavi, who is seen by Iranian monarchists as the leader of Iran’s opposition, is in Germany to rally support for his campaign for regime change in Iran. During his visit, Pahlavi made an appeal to European governments to take a stand in support of Iranians seeking political change. He claimed that 19 political prisoners were executed in the past two weeks and another 20 people sentenced to death.
“Will the free world do something, or watch the slaughter in silence?” he said.
His visit drew a response from German authorities. He was not scheduled to meet any government officials. Speaking during the press conference, he called the lack of official engagement “a disgrace” and said democratic governments should “speak with the people who are the voice of the voiceless.”
German officials maintained that Pahlavi was visiting in a private capacity. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said it was not the federal government’s role to hold such talks. Pahlavi is expected to meet political figures, including members of the conservative Christian Democratic Union, but without official support from the government.
Meanwhile, hundreds of Pahlavi’s supporters gathered near Germany’s parliament, showing visible backing for his campaign.
