Protesters across Iran have started chanting “Javid Shah”, meaning “Long live the Shah”, as calls grow for the return of the Pahlavi monarchy after 46 years. The slogans mention Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi and his mother, former Empress Farah Pahlavi, who live in exile.
The chants began during economic protests in late December 2025. Merchants in Tehran’s bazaar closed shops over the falling rial currency. The unrest spread to over 30 cities, including Isfahan, Mashhad, and even Qom, a religious centre. Videos show crowds shouting “Javid Shah” and “Pahlavi will return.” Some wave the old Lion and Sun flag from the monarchy era.
This marks a change from past protests. In 2022, after Mahsa Amini’s death, some called for regime change, but not always the monarchy. Now, the slogans are clearer. People chant against Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and for Reza Pahlavi, son of the last Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The 1979 revolution ended the monarchy and brought the Islamic Republic.
Reza Pahlavi lives outside Iran and speaks against the government. He has urged unity and even called for strikes. From exile, he supports the protesters and says he is ready to help if needed. His mother, Farah Pahlavi, the Shah’s widow, also gets mentioned in some calls. She has spoken in interviews about hoping for change in Iran.
The protests started over money problems. The rial hit record lows, making everyday items costly. Inflation and shortages hit hard. But the chants quickly turned political. In places like Nahavand and Sari, people shouted pro-monarchy lines openly. Even university students joined in, which surprises some since they once opposed the Shah.
The government faces a challenge. Security forces use tear gas and live fire in spots, but crowds keep coming. Protests go into the night in Tehran and other areas. Slogans like “This is the final battle” mix with calls for the Pahlavi family.
Outside Iran, the diaspora watches closely. Iranian communities in Europe and the US share videos and show support. Reza Pahlavi has met leaders abroad and pushes for a secular democracy. He says the choice belongs to Iranians.
Not all protesters want a king back. Some call for a republic or other changes. But the monarchy slogans stand out now. They show frustration with the current system after decades. The economy struggles with sanctions and management issues.
Farah Pahlavi, now in her 80s, lives quietly but speaks on Iran sometimes. She remembers the old days and hopes for freedom. Her son carries the family name in politics from afar.
As 2026 begins, the unrest continues. No clear end in sight. Protests grow in size, and the chants get louder. For many, “Javid Shah” means rejecting the clerics and looking back for a way forward.
This wave feels different because it started in conservative spots like the bazaar. Merchants played a big role in 1979 too, but against the Shah then. Now, some see the past differently.
Videos keep coming online despite restrictions. People risk a lot to share them. The world watches as Iran faces another round of big protests.
Reza Pahlavi has not said he wants the throne directly. He talks about helping transition to democracy. But his name echoes in the streets.
The story unfolds day by day. Economic pain mixes with political demands. Chants for the Pahlavis signal deep discontent after 46 years. In cities big and small, people gather. Some carry signs or flags. The message is clear for those listening.
