The moment carries a historical irony. The last comparable mass mobilisation in Iran culminated in the overthrow of the Pahlavi monarchy itself, which ruled the country from 1925 to 1979. Emerging from early 20th-century instability and intense power rivalry among the great powers, the dynasty presided over rapid modernisation alongside deep political repression. It combined ambitious nation-building with authoritarian rule and a constant reliance on foreign support. Setting the stage for the Pahlavis Before the Pahlavis came to power, Iran was ruled by the Qajar dynasty, which governed the country since the late 18th century. By the turn of the...