Iran’s exiled prince receives Nixon Foundation ‘Architect of Peace’ award

The exiled son of the late Shah of Iran Prince Reza Pahlavi received the Nixon Foundation’s Architect of Peace Award at a ceremony in California on Tuesday evening.

“There is no one I stand more proudly side by side with than the people of Iran today. And I will stand with them until victory," Pahlavi said in his acceptance speech.

The award recognized his advocacy for human rights and peaceful change in Iran after protests since 2022 were met with violence by authorities.

During his speech, Pahlavi described his commitment to ensuring a transition from authoritarian rule to a secular democratic government.

“I will work tirelessly to oversee and ensure that Iran undergoes a peaceful and secure transition to a secular democracy—one where every citizen can live as equals, free from any form of discrimination,” he said.

Honoring the hundreds who have been killed by the Islamic Republic's security apparatus, in addition to hundreds more executed since 2022, Pahlavi paid tribute to the resilience of ordinary Iranians.

He called them the “real architects of peace” and acknowledged the sacrifices they continue to make in their quest for freedom.

“Despite everything, they continue to rise, they continue to fight for the realization of our great civilization,” he said, referencing the widespread protests that have rocked Iran in recent years.

“It is because of them, my dear compatriots, that I have stayed in this fight. I seek nothing for myself, only to serve them. So as long as I live, I will continue my lifelong mission to free Iran from this oppressive regime. I will do everything in my power to ensure that the future of Iran is one of peace, democracy, and justice.”

Pahlavi addressed the increasing instability in the Middle East, as the Islamic Republic and its armed allies confront Israel.

“This is the war of a dictator, Ali Khamenei, who thrives on division and conflict," he said. "The Iranian people do not seek war. They seek peace, security, and a future free from tyranny,” he said, distancing ordinary Iranians from the policies of the current leadership.

Offering hope for the future as the movement against the Islamic Republic continues, he added: "We are nearing the day when the Iranian people will once again take their rightful place in the world—a free, democratic, and peaceful Iran. This is the future we seek. This is the future we will achieve.”

Over the years, the award has been presented to leaders including former Presidents Gerald Ford, George H.W. Bush, and George W. Bush; former Secretaries of State Henry Kissinger and Mike Pompeo; Senators Elizabeth Dole, Joe Lieberman and John McCain.