Exiled Iranian crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has once again criticized the recently revealed prisoner exchange deal between Tehran and Washington. He described it as a $6 billion “ransom payment” to the Islamic Republic in exchange for the release of five dual-national hostages. Pahlavi expressed strong opposition to sending money to the Iranian regime, particularly when it is involved in repression at home and terrorism abroad.
He highlighted the timing of the deal, suggesting that it was aimed at undermining the spirit of Mahsa Day, a time when Iranians inside and outside the country are preparing for protests. According to Pahlavi, the transaction is intended to “dampen the hope of Iran’s freedom fighters and strengthen the repressive Islamic Republic.” He also characterized it as a gift to the regime and Ebrahim Raisi, the current President of Iran, as he travels to New York.
Pahlavi issued a warning to the American administration, cautioning that the Iranian people will remember those who turned their backs on them during their most difficult times and supported their oppressors instead.
He concluded with a message of resilience to the Iranian population, urging them to continue the struggle: “My compatriots, keep the flame of hope burning in your hearts. The Islamic Republic will fall because you, the great nation of Iran, are standing against it.”
The reported deal comes at a time of speculation that $6 billion of unfrozen Iranian funds will be transferred from South Korea to banks in Qatar, potentially leading to the release of detained dual-national hostages on both sides.