Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last Shah, asserted on March 28 that negotiations with the current Iranian leadership would not eliminate threats to the United States but merely provide Tehran with additional time. He reiterated his call for Iranians to engage in street protests against the regime.
Pahlavi spoke at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas, where he received a warm reception. His remarks about aiding the “liberation of the Iranian people” were met with enthusiastic applause from conservatives and Iranian Americans in attendance.
Referencing recent statements from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed a tough stance on Iran due to concerns about ongoing threats, Pahlavi warned that any agreements with the current Iranian government would lead to a cycle of renewed hostilities. He stated, “The only thing to rely on from the remnants of this regime is time gained, deception, and theft. They will never be honest or genuine partners for peace.”
Pahlavi emphasized that the Iranian authorities would merely simulate negotiations before reverting to their usual tactics of pressure and threats against the U.S. He remarked, “They will gain time, pretend to negotiate, and then return to their old jihadist methods, threatening America, its security, and interests.”
The 65-year-old opposition figure positions himself as a viable candidate for leading a transitional government. He expressed his readiness to return to Iran at the first opportunity, ending a 47-year exile.
In his speech, Pahlavi sought to connect the prospect of regime change in Iran with American security and business interests, suggesting that a free Iran could unlock significant economic opportunities for the U.S.
His proposal to envision an Iran that would no longer chant “Death to America” but instead say, “God bless America,” elicited a strong reaction from the audience, with some attendees chanting, “Long live the King.”
Pahlavi also recalled his earlier call for sustained nationwide protests in Iran, stating that he would again urge Iranians to rise up to reclaim their homeland, dignity, and future when the moment is right.
Reza Pahlavi addressed the Conservative Political Action Conference, urging Iranians to protest against their government. He criticized potential negotiations with the Iranian regime, claiming they would only serve to prolong existing threats to the U.S.