Trump Questions Exiled Iranian Prince's Popularity Amid Unrest
US President Donald Trump offered cautious remarks about Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi on Wednesday. Speaking exclusively to Reuters in the Oval Office, Trump described the exiled former crown prince as a "very nice" person. However, he openly doubted whether Pahlavi could gather enough support inside Iran to take leadership.
Doubts Over Support Within Iran
Trump expressed uncertainty about Pahlavi's political future. "He seems very nice, but I don't know how he'd play within his own country," the president stated. He added, "And we really aren't up to that point yet." Trump made these comments as protests continued to grip Iran against the clerical regime.
The US president acknowledged the possibility that Iran's government could collapse under protest pressure. Yet he did not openly endorse Pahlavi as an alternative leader. "I don't know whether or not his country would accept his leadership," Trump said. "And certainly if they would, that would be fine with me."
Protests Spread Across Iran
Trump's remarks came during widespread demonstrations in Iran. The protests began over economic hardship but have grown into broader calls for political change. Demonstrators now demand an end to the theocratic system that has ruled since 1979.
- Protests have spread across multiple Iranian cities
- Authorities have implemented heavy security measures
- Internet restrictions and mass arrests have occurred
- Thousands have reportedly been killed in the crackdown
Trump acknowledged the unpredictable nature of political outcomes. "Whether or not it falls or not, it's going to be an interesting period of time," he said about the Iranian government. The president added that "any regime can fail."
Pahlavi's Background and Position
Reza Pahlavi is the son of Iran's last shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The monarchy was overthrown in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The 65-year-old has lived in exile for decades and has emerged as a prominent opposition voice during current demonstrations.
- Born in Tehran in 1960
- Named crown prince in 1967
- Left Iran in 1978 for jet fighter training in the US
- Studied political science at the University of Southern California
- Declared himself shah in exile after his father's 1980 death
Despite his royal lineage, Pahlavi says he does not seek monarchy restoration. He positions himself as an advocate for a secular, democratic system. Pahlavi promotes achieving change through non-violent civil disobedience and a national referendum.
Pahlavi's Recent Statements
The exiled prince has used the protest moment to urge sustained demonstrations. He argues continued pressure could collapse the current leadership. In recent video messages and social media posts, Pahlavi announced preparations to return home after nearly five decades in exile.
"I, too, am preparing to return to the homeland," he wrote. "So that at the time of our national revolution's victory, I can be beside you, the great nation of Iran. I believe that day is very near."
Pahlavi claims the opposition has a transition plan for a post-regime Iran. He describes a "100-day plan" to establish democratic government and prevent chaos. "Do not abandon the streets. My heart is with you... We will take back Iran," he said in a message reported by ANI.
The former crown prince has described his role as that of a "catalyst" for change. He told The Washington Post in 1989, "In a way, I'm king-elect." Yet his current focus remains on democratic transition rather than royal restoration.
US Position on Iranian Protests
Trump has repeatedly warned that the United States could intervene to support Iranian protesters. However, he signals caution about endorsing any single opposition figure. The president's latest comments reflect this careful approach toward Iran's internal politics.
The situation remains fluid as protests continue across Iran. Both Trump's remarks and Pahlavi's statements highlight the complex dynamics surrounding Iran's political future. The coming weeks will reveal whether protest momentum can translate into substantive political change.
