Key points
- Says attack could speed regime collapse
- Warns negotiations with Tehran may fail
- US continues nuclear talks while preparing options
MUNICH: Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah and a prominent opposition figure, has called for US military intervention in Iran, arguing it could help accelerate the collapse of the Islamic Republic’s leadership and “save lives”.
Pahlavi urged President Donald Trump’s administration not to spend too long pursuing negotiations with Tehran’s clerical rulers over a nuclear agreement, saying there were growing signs the government was close to falling, reports Reuters.
Pahlavi claimed that an attack could weaken the authorities and encourage Iranians to return to the streets in protest. “It’s a matter of time. We are hoping that this attack will expedite the process,” he said, adding that intervention could lead to the “ultimate regime’s downfall”.
Nuclear deal
Iran’s opposition remains deeply fragmented, with monarchists backing Pahlavi forming only one faction among several rival groups. President Trump has previously expressed scepticism over the extent of Pahlavi’s support inside Iran.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has continued exploring the possibility of a nuclear deal, with US and Iranian diplomats holding indirect talks in Oman last week and another round expected soon.
Pahlavi argued that negotiations may ultimately prove futile. “People are hoping… there’s no point, we’re not going to get anywhere with negotiations,” he said, insisting that US action would demonstrate support for Iranians seeking change.
Trump has repeatedly warned Iran of consequences if no agreement is reached, while US officials say military preparations are underway should escalation occur.
