Man Throws Red Liquid at Reza Pahlavi in Berlin
In a dramatic incident that quickly gained global attention, Iran’s exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi was targeted by a protester who threw a red liquid at him during a public appearance in Berlin on April 23, 2026.
What Happened
The incident occurred just after Pahlavi exited a press briefing at Germany’s federal press conference venue. As he was heading toward his vehicle under security presence, an individual approached and splashed a red-colored substance—believed to be tomato juice or paint—onto his back and shoulders.
Despite the sudden attack, Pahlavi appeared calm and uninjured. Visuals from the scene show him briefly acknowledging supporters before leaving the area in a waiting car.
Immediate Police Action
Security personnel reacted swiftly, and the suspected attacker was detained on the spot by German police.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the individual, but early reports suggest the act may have been politically motivated.
Possible Motive
Preliminary information indicates that the attack could be linked to opposition against Pahlavi’s political stance. He has been a vocal critic of Iran’s current regime and has recently called for stronger Western intervention and support for democratic movements in Iran.
Some reports suggest the act was a form of protest against his perceived alignment with Western and Israeli policies amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran.
Political Context
Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last Shah who was overthrown in the 1979 Iranian Revolution, has lived in exile for decades. In recent years, he has attempted to position himself as a potential figure in Iran’s political future. However, his influence remains debated, with divided support among the Iranian diaspora and within Iran itself.
His Berlin visit was already drawing attention due to parallel demonstrations by both supporters and critics, reflecting deep divisions within opposition movements.
Incident Goes Viral
The moment was captured on video and quickly spread across social media platforms, amplifying its symbolic impact. The use of red liquid—often associated with protest symbolism—has sparked discussions online about political expression, security, and rising tensions surrounding Iranian opposition figures abroad.
Bigger Picture
While the attack did not result in physical harm, it underscores the volatile political climate surrounding Iranian opposition leaders and diaspora activism. It also raises concerns about security during high-profile international visits, especially when political tensions spill over into public demonstrations.
The incident serves as a reminder that global geopolitical conflicts increasingly manifest beyond national borders, often in symbolic and highly visible ways.