In a significant event in Frankfurt, approximately 18,000 people gathered to support Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Iranian monarch who was ousted in 1979. The gathering was marked by demonstrators chanting slogans in support of Pahlavi and waving pre-revolutionary Iranian flags, reflecting a mix of nostalgia and hope for a different future for Iran. The police estimated the crowd size at this notable demonstration, which took place during the award ceremony for the "Freedom Prize."

The "Freedom Prize" was awarded to Reza Pahlavi by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation, an activist group aligned with Germany's liberal Free Democratic Party (FDP). This award, intended to symbolize support for the Iranian people, has sparked controversy, with critics labeling the recognition as illegitimate. They argue that Pahlavi has not sufficiently distanced himself from the legacy of his father's regime, which has led to divisions within the Iranian opposition.S2

Despite the criticism, the event showcased a significant turnout, indicating a strong base of support for Pahlavi among certain factions of the Iranian diaspora. The ceremony not only highlighted the ongoing struggles of Iranians for freedom and democracy but also underscored the complexities of the opposition's internal dynamics as they navigate the legacy of the past while seeking a path forward.S1S2