As monarchists we represent the majority today. That puts on our shoulders a responsibility in how we treat others and we should strive to win to our side those who are republican or oppose our strategy.

I have come across some intelligent young Iranian women who like Sherehazad stand their ground (Bahar Almassi , Eynak). These are just two examples and I am sure there are many others.

Their concerns are legitimate and need to be adressed in due time. A democratic Iran even in the form of a Constitutional Monarchy, will have to tolerate and allow a republican front which will be free to run in elections. If people choose the Monarchy in the future, the institution will be faced by similar challenges faced by Spain's Monarchy today.

Unlike Great Britain, Spain's Monarchy has to continuously live up to the expectations of the time. The Spanish Civil War very much like the Islamic Revolution in Iran has left scars and the Spanish Monarchy and Constitution have had to compromise in order to maintain a status quo guaranteeing a democratic framework within which all political ideologies can express themselves democratically. To date King Juan Carlos and his son King Felipe have been able to guarantee this status quo despite challenges to the Crown including financial scandals that have tarnished the institution. Will the future monarch, who will be a woman, that is Princess Leonor, be able to sustain this status quo ? Only time will say.

However what is certain is that the Iranian monarchist constituency faces similar challenges in earning the support of the republican constituency. We will have to be imaginative in building a support for the institution beyond political rivalries. The future Monarch, male or female will have to be tolerated if not accepted by those frustrated republicans if we wish to sustain the royal institution overtime. That requires building a society where social justice, freedom of speech for all is guaranteed.

At this juncture in our fight for freedom, secularism and democracy, some republicans may feel rejected because our priorities diverge. But we do have a common enemy and that is the Islamic Republic.

I do not believe that a coalition is possible at this stage of the Sun and Lion Revolution is possible but we do have to prepare for the future and allow a space for dialogue.

The two ladies mentioned here deserve respect and acknowledgment. In a democratic Iran, One day their views may well become a majority. What then ? The rules of the game must be respected for all.

At this juncture however the main goal is to offer the world an alternative as a strong and unified force behind Crown Prince Reza. As I explained in a previous blog a transitional government in exile is premature. It will create high expectations and divisions which we cannot yet afford. But Crown Prince Reza's team must act behind the scenes to win over people who are not monarchists but whose likeminds could play a constructive role in the transition.

As such no one must be left aside including the republicans.