Trump Expresses Skepticism About Reza Pahlavi’s Role in Iran's Future Amid Protests

In a recent interview at the White House, U.S. President Donald Trump voiced his skepticism regarding the ability of Reza Pahlavi, an Iranian opposition leader, to rally support and effectively lead Iran. While acknowledging Pahlavi’s cordial demeanor, Trump questioned his actual influence within the country.

The 65-year-old Pahlavi, who has resided abroad since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has become a significant figure for some protesters amid escalating unrest in Iran, which has claimed thousands of lives due to governmental repression. Despite his visibility, the fractured nature of the Iranian opposition complicates any potential unified leadership.

On the matter of the Ukraine conflict, Trump remarked that he views Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy as the principal stumbling block to achieving peace with Russia, asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to negotiations but that the terms haven’t been fully accepted by Zelenskiy.

As for domestic affairs, Trump brushed aside Republican critiques regarding the Justice Department’s inquiry into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, urging party members to exhibit loyalty and dismissing fears about his actions impacting inflation rates.

Discussing the Iranian protests, Trump speculated on the potential collapse of the Iranian regime, acknowledging that “any regime can fail” and described this period as “interesting” for Iran’s uncertain political landscape.

Additionally, Trump praised Venezuelan acting president Delcy Rodriguez and mentioned an upcoming meeting with opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, whom he referred to as “a very nice woman,” indicating their discussions would center around fundamental issues.

His interview also covered the strength of the U.S. economy, with Trump reiterating confidence in robust job figures and his intent to emphasize this during the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he anticipates discussions with leaders from Switzerland, Poland, and Egypt.

Overall, Trump’s remarks reflect a cautious stance towards Iran’s opposition, as he navigates a landscape marked by international disputes and domestic political hurdles, all while simultaneously addressing foreign relations and economic strategy.