Exiled Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi has called on the United States to consider military intervention in Iran, arguing that such action could accelerate the fall of the Islamic Republic and ultimately reduce loss of life.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany, Pahlavi said the Iranian government is on the brink of collapse and that a potential U.S. strike could expedite the process. He urged Washington not to engage in prolonged negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear program.
Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah who was overthrown during the Iranian Revolution, has lived in the United States since before the 1979 upheaval. He claimed that renewed public protests could quickly intensify if external pressure weakens the ruling establishment.
Iran has been gripped by economic hardship and sporadic protests in recent months. Demonstrations that began in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar reportedly spread nationwide, with thousands arrested. Observers describe the unrest as among the most serious since the 1979 revolution.
However, Iran’s opposition remains fragmented along ideological lines, with limited organized presence inside the country. In a recent interview, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about Pahlavi’s level of domestic support within Iran.
Meanwhile, Washington continues to explore the possibility of reviving a nuclear agreement with Tehran. Diplomats from both sides reportedly met in Oman last week, with further talks expected. At the same time, the United States has strengthened its military presence in the region.
Addressing troops in North Carolina on Friday, Trump said Iran has taken a hard line in nuclear discussions and suggested that stronger measures might be necessary to break the deadlock. According to unnamed U.S. officials cited by Reuters, the Pentagon is preparing options for a potential multi-week military operation should the president issue the order.
