Reza Pahlavi Rally in Düsseldorf: Global Demonstrations Mark Mahsa Amini Anniversary and Call for a Free Iran
The Iranian diaspora could also act as a bridge between European companies and Iranian institutions.
Germany would be particularly important because of its industrial economy and longstanding economic relationship with Iran.
The Düsseldorf conference therefore framed the relationship as more than a political question.
It presented Europe-Iran relations as a potential economic partnership.
Sam Van Rooy’s Criticism of European Iran Policy
Sam Van Rooy’s Düsseldorf remarks directly addressed this relationship.
He argued that European countries had failed to adequately confront the Islamic Republic because of economic interests.
His criticism reflects a broader argument frequently made by Iranian opposition activists: that European governments have treated Tehran primarily as a diplomatic and economic partner rather than as a government accused of systematic repression.
Van Rooy emphasized Iranian civilization and cultural identity.
He also warned against assuming that Western political models could simply be copied and applied to Iran.
This argument has become increasingly relevant as opposition groups debate the institutional design of a future Iran.
Iranian Identity and Political Transition
The question of Iranian identity is at the center of much of the political discussion surrounding the Pahlavi movement.
Supporters emphasize Iran as a historical nation with a civilization extending thousands of years.
They often distinguish between the Iranian nation and the political ideology of the Islamic Republic.
This distinction is important.
The Islamic Republic defines itself through a revolutionary Islamic political framework.
Many opposition activists instead emphasize territorial integrity, national identity, Iranian culture and secular citizenship.
The disagreement is therefore not simply about leadership.
It is also about the definition of the state.
September 5, 2026 | 4:50 pm
