Exiled crown prince ready to lead Iran through potential transitional period

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, son of the late Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, said he is prepared to return to Iran and play a leading role during a potential transitional period should political change occur.

In remarks that aired on January 11 on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures,” he publicly called on President Donald Trump to collaborate in overthrowing Iran’s current regime, proposing a partnership to “liberate Iran” and “make it great again,” Caliber.Az reports.

Pahlavi lauded Trump as a leader “committed to peace and fighting evil forces,” drawing a stark contrast with former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden.

“You have already established your legacy as a man committed to peace and fighting evil forces,” Pahlavi said, adding that the Iranian people see Trump as the complete opposite of Barack Obama or Joe Biden, according to clips shared widely on social media.

He added that his job is to lead the transition, ensuring that no stone is left unturned and that, with full transparency, people have the opportunity to freely elect their leaders and determine their own future.

The statement comes as nationwide protests in Iran continue to escalate against the Islamic Republic under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Demonstrations have now spread to more than 100 cities, featuring chants in support of Pahlavi and calls for the monarchy’s restoration, alongside broader demands for regime change. In some areas, protesters have reportedly renamed streets after Trump, signaling appreciation for his warnings against violent crackdowns.

The Iranian regime has responded with force, implementing a nationwide internet blackout and with reports indicating dozens of demonstrators have died. Pahlavi has repeatedly called on Iranians to take to the streets, while appealing to Trump for intervention to protect protesters, describing the US president’s rhetoric as having a “tremendous positive effect.”

Trump has expressed support for the Iranian people, stating that the US is “locked and loaded” to act should the regime violently target peaceful demonstrators. He has, however, declined to meet with Pahlavi at this time, telling conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt that it would not be “appropriate” and that the US should “let everybody go out there and see who emerges.”

By Jeyhun Aghazada