For years, the debate over “monarchy or republic” has become one of the most exhausting and repetitive controversies in Iran’s political discourse—a debate that has often displaced the real issue. Monarchy or Republic: That Is Not the Question! seeks to set aside this false dichotomy and return to a more fundamental question: How can Iran move toward development, stability, and a sustainable democracy?

Adopting an analytical and journalistic approach, this book moves beyond familiar clichés to focus on more decisive factors: the quality of governance, the role of modern institutions, the responsibility of political elites, historical errors in dominant narratives, and the consequences of deep-seated mental and ideological divides within both the opposition and society at large. The book does not offer ready-made solutions; rather, its aim is to clarify the core problem and reopen the space for serious dialogue—a dialogue without which no low-cost transition and no stable future will be possible.

If you are concerned about Iran’s future and wish to think beyond worn-out political binaries, this book was written for you.