Reza Pahlavi Visits Sweden Amid Iran Conflict with Heightened Security Measures

Reza Pahlavi, the exiled eldest son of Iran's last Shah, arrived in Sweden on Sunday, April 12, 2026, amidst the ongoing conflict in Iran. Landing at Arlanda Airport around 11:30 AM, Pahlavi's visit comes shortly after peace negotiations between the US and Iran collapsed after 21 hours of talks. He is widely regarded as a potential leader for a transitional government if the current Iranian regime falls. Having lived in exile in the US for over 50 years, Pahlavi addressed legitimacy concerns in an interview with SVT's Agenda, stating that many Iranians who once opposed his father now support him, emphasizing societal progress such as advances in women's rights since his father's rule. Proud of his heritage, he referenced the chants of his name on Iran's streets and expressed his desire to rally Swedish politicians against the Iranian regime during meetings planned in the Swedish parliament.

Pahlavi is scheduled to speak at the Swedish Parliament on Monday at 11 AM, following invitations from the Sweden Democrats and the Christian Democrats. In preparation for his visit, considerable security arrangements have been implemented, including the cancellation of some parliamentary tours on Sunday to ensure safety. These heightened measures underscore the political sensitivity surrounding his visit and the ongoing tensions related to the Iran situation.