U.S. considers exiled Pahlavi as potential Iranian leader, overlooking domestic political dynamics
Original framing: “Trump mulls exiled Iranian dissident Reza Pahlavi as regime successor” — Al Jazeera
The 1979 Iranian Revolution marked a definitive rejection of the Pahlavi dynasty, with the establishment of the Islamic Republic. The current regime has maintained power through a combination of religious authority and military control, making any return to monarchical rule highly unlikely without significant internal upheaval.
The suggestion of Reza Pahlavi as a potential successor to Iran's Supreme Leader reflects a narrow, externally imposed view of political change that ignores the complex historical, cultural, and structural realities of Iran.
The Pahlavi dynasty was rejected in 1979 due to its perceived Western alignment and authoritarianism, and any return would face significant resistance from both the clerical establishment and the Iranian public. Cross-culturally, external interventions in regime change have often led to instability, as seen in Iraq and Libya, underscoring the need for locally driven solutions. Indigenous and marginalised voices in Iran have consistently called for democratic reforms rather than dynastic rule, and these perspectives must be central to any meaningful political transition. A more viable path forward involves fostering internal dialogue, supporting civil society, and promoting inclusive governance models that reflect the will of the Iranian people.