Iran’s ruling regime is experiencing significant strain, with opposition leader Prince Reza Pahlavi describing this period as possibly its most precarious. Amid ongoing economic hardships and widespread anti-regime protests, Pahlavi, the former crown prince and a prominent advocate for democracy, shared his insights during an interview with FOX Business’ Maria Bartiromo on “Mornings with Maria.”
Pahlavi emphasized how international financial sanctions are intensifying internal dissent, further weakening the Iranian government’s hold on power. He believes that the regime is nearing collapse and that these sanctions could expedite its downfall. “Clearly, the regime that is on its last leg and about to collapse would … be even more a challenge as a result of economic sanctions, and it would precipitate its downfall,” he stated.
He views the current moment as pivotal, noting that circumstances have never been more favorable for a transition. Pahlavi voiced skepticism about the regime’s willingness to change, stating, “I doubt that this regime will ever come clean. It has always been this disingenuous and dishonest.”
His strategic approach combines what he terms “maximum support for the people parallel to maximum pressure on the regime,” a tactic that he believes will lead to increased defections from the regime to the opposition, paving the way for a smoother transition following its anticipated collapse. He expressed optimism about the unity among Iranians who now recognize the critical need for regime change.
In a broader context, Pahlavi is advocating for the “Iran Prosperity Project,” a plan aimed at reviving the economy and inviting Western investment once a new government is established. He projects that transformative changes in Iran could yield over $1 trillion in economic benefits to the U.S. market within the next decade.
Pahlavi’s message underscores the importance of reconsidering relations with the Iranian regime. “Your best bet is to trust the Iranian people and not trust more this regime,” he argued, highlighting the implications of this moment on Iran’s future trajectory—whether it remains aligned with authoritarian regimes or shifts towards a secular democratic landscape.
With the Iranian regime reportedly at a breaking point, Pahlavi urges Western leaders to act decisively. He implores them, “Just push the regime over the cliff, because it’s on its way down, and not throw it yet another lifeline.”