In a recent video address, Reza Pahlavi delivered a stirring message to Iranian students who have taken to the streets during the reopening of universities in February 2026. Calling the students “the brave daughters and sons of Iran,” Pahlavi praised their efforts for turning academic spaces into platforms for national resistance, emphasizing that their actions reflect the enduring spirit and vitality of the Iranian people. He framed their activism as a continuation of his father’s vision from nearly fifty years ago, highlighting that today’s generation is answering history and carrying forward the struggle for freedom and justice.

Pahlavi stressed the importance of unity and courage in the ongoing fight against the current regime, cautioning against normalizing the oppression that persists across the country. He referenced the ongoing violence and repression—citizens being killed, others sentenced to death, and families mourning losses—as a stark reminder that the struggle for Iran’s liberation is far from over. His message was both a tribute to the resilience of students and a call to maintain vigilance and solidarity in the face of state brutality.

The address coincided with escalating protests around Tehran and other cities, which erupted on February 22 during 40-day memorials for victims of previous rallies. These demonstrations have often clashed with Basij militias, prompting the government to suspend university activities and threaten prosecution for those who cross “red lines.” Pahlavi’s encouragement reinforces the students’ role as a vital force sustaining national resistance, linking their current activism to broader aspirations for a free and sovereign Iran.

Concluding with a declaration of hope and determination, Pahlavi invoked national symbolism, calling for the reclamation and rebuilding of Iran and celebrating the enduring spirit of the Revolution of the Lion and Sun. His message situates the students not only as participants in ongoing protests but as key actors in shaping the future of their country, emphasizing that the path toward freedom is inseparable from their courage, awareness, and commitment.

Reza Pahlavi:

Students of mine, the brave daughters and sons of Iran,

You have turned the reopening of universities into the loud voice of the nation and demonstrated the steadfast bond between universities and the people. You have shown that Iran is alive and that the will of the people cannot be extinguished.

Nearly fifty years ago, my father predicted how future generations would judge him and his services. Today, you have answered history. His spirit is at peace, seeing that the children of Iran are awake, standing with courage and awareness to reclaim the country.

Stay united. Stand firm. Do not allow an ordinary image to be painted of our wounded homeland. As long as our people are being killed, our sisters and brothers are sentenced to death, and our mothers, fathers, spouses, and children are mourning; as long as this dark night has not ended and Iran is not freed from the grip of this oppressive regime, nothing is normal and our struggle continues.

Know that the future belongs to you, the ones who did not stay silent, who rose and stood firm. Together, we will reclaim Iran and rebuild it.

Long live Iran! Victory to the Revolution of the Lion and Sun of the Iranian nation!