Azadeh Karimian

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi is an invaluable asset to Iran. Even among sitting Western leaders, how many politicians can command such an extraordinary level of public support, enthusiasm, and grassroots mobilization? The massive gathering of Iranians in Frankfurt, Germany, to welcome Prince @PahlaviReza as he accepted the 2026 Freedom Prize on behalf of the Iranian people was yet another powerful demonstration of his leadership and popular support. He may not represent every Iranian, but he undoubtedly represents the majority. In January 2026, he led the largest anti-regime protests in Iran’s history. On February 14, 1.5 million Iranians across the diaspora took to the streets around the world in response to his call. Think about that for a moment. How many political figures in the West, or anywhere in the world, can mobilize that kind of support? Iranians inside the country and across the diaspora are demanding a transition to democracy under his leadership. Any U.S. policy toward Iran that ignores this reality and the will of the Iranian people is doomed to fail. It is in America's strategic interest to engage directly with Prince Reza Pahlavi and begin preparing for a post-Islamic Republic Iran. Washington should recognize this political reality now,