Iran has lost another patriotic son, Prince Alireza Pahlavi

Prince Alireza Pahlavi, second son of the late Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi (image source: RezaPahlavi.org)

Yesterday, Prince Reza Pahlavi, announced on his website that his younger brother, Prince Alireza Pahlavi, the second son of the late Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, had taken his own life:

It is with immense grief that we would like to inform our compatriots of the passing away of Prince Alireza Pahlavi.

Like millions of young Iranians, he too was deeply disturbed by all the ills fallen upon his beloved homeland, as well as carrying the burden of losing a father and a sister in his young life.

Although he struggled for years to overcome his sorrow, he finally succumbed, and during the night of the 4th of January 2011, in his Boston residence, took his own life, plunging his family and friends into great sorrow.

Once again, we are joined with mothers, father and relatives of so many victims of these dark times for our country.

Reza Pahlavi, Farah Pahlavi, Farahnaz Pahlavi, Yasmine Pahlavi, Noor Pahlavi, Iman Pahlavi and Farah Pahlavi

My deepest condolences to the Pahlavi family. May this be their last sorrow.

I have not been back to Iran in thirty-two years (since the revolution), when I was six. It is a dream of mine to return to Iran when it is free. To rejoice in that freedom with my compatriots. I have no doubt that Alireza shared the same dream. Knowing that he had lived in exile since the revolution, and that he has left us without being able to set foot on the soil of his beloved native country again leaves me deeply saddened.

Iran has lost another patriotic son.

Reza Pahlavi has announced via Twitter:

I will carry out my dear brother Alireza’s wish to spread his ashes over the Caspian Sea, home of his fondest memories. #Iran #iranelection

May his soul rest in peace there.