Royal Reckoning: Iranian Cleric Urges Farah Pahlavi to Follow Her Son-in-Law’s Path to Redemption

According to Saed News, Ayatollah Seyed Hassan Ameli used his weekly address to launch a sharp-tongued critique of Iran’s exiled opposition, particularly the Pahlavi family. In his speech, Ameli distinguished between Farah Pahlavi—the widow of the late Shah—and her son, whom he referred to as “treasonous,” saying:
“I have no words for the male member of this family. He’s simply a reflection of his father.”

Citing a controversial remark made by a former U.S. Treasury Secretary about Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi—describing him as “mentally unstable”—Ameli intensified his tone:
“The U.S. Treasury Secretary once said your husband was utterly unhinged. You can't reason with someone like that. But as for you, the mother of this family, I offer a sincere recommendation.”

The cleric’s words shifted from confrontation to counsel as he appealed to Farah Diba’s age and legacy.
“You are in the twilight of your life. These are your final years. Choose to end it with dignity, and let the Iranian people remember you with kindness. The path to redemption is simple: follow the example of your son-in-law, Ardeshir Zahedi.”

Zahedi—who served as Iran’s foreign minister and ambassador to the U.S.—became a controversial figure later in life for defending the Islamic Republic’s sovereignty against foreign meddling, distancing himself from regime-change efforts led by the exiled opposition.

Ameli urged Farah to make the same choice:
“I doubt you would say, ‘Hellfire is better than disgrace.’ Because this isn't disgrace—it's honor. Just as it wasn't disgraceful for Ardeshir Zahedi. In fact, your stature will rise. Every moment matters now. If you’ve ever done good in your life, this opportunity for grace will not pass you by.”

The sermon ended with a pointed call for reflection, offering Farah a rare moment of outreach from inside the very political system her family once ruled—and now vocally opposes.