On May 9, 2026, Iranians worldwide convened for protests following a call from exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi, focusing on the increasingly concerning circumstances within the Islamic Republic. The rallies are taking place under the banner “A nation held hostage,” aimed at highlighting pervasive issues such as internet restrictions, mass arrests, and the grim continuation of executions in Iran.

Protests began over the weekend, with many rallies scheduled for Sunday, May 10, across various cities including London, Sydney, Seoul, Stockholm, Berlin, Frankfurt, Toronto, and Los Angeles. In Berlin, demonstrators are set to march from Potsdamer Platz to the iconic Brandenburg Gate, while in Sydney, participants plan to rally from North Hyde Park to Martin Place.

The calls for action come amid reported human rights violations in Iran, where the government has imposed severe restrictions on freedom of expression. The internet blackout that has persisted in the country, alongside widespread arrests and state-sanctioned violence, has galvanized the diaspora to speak out against the Iranian regime.

These international gatherings underscore the resolve of Iranians, both domestically and abroad, to confront the systemic oppression faced under the current government. Organizers hope that bringing these issues to the global stage will not only raise awareness but also foster international support in the fight for democratic reforms in Iran.