Erfan Fard
In an unprecedented shift from previous approaches, the Biden administration’s recent policy towards Iran marks a pivotal moment, signifying a bold departure from the strategy of appeasement that characterized U.S. dealings with the Mullahs. The release of a new video by the U.S. State Department’s Persian Section, featuring Deputy Special Envoy Abram Paley, encapsulates this turning point. This gesture hints at a newfound resolve within the White House to confront the Iranian regime head-on, prioritizing support for the Iranian populace over futile attempts at placating Tehran’s leadership.
For too long, Democrats have pursued a diplomatic path with Iran’s regime, which is affectionately referred to by its critics as “terrorist-loving mullahs.” Yet, this approach has yielded negligible results, serving only to embolden Tehran without making substantive progress towards peace or stability in the region. It echoes the sentiments long voiced by Prince Reza Pahlavi, who has consistently advocated for a more confrontational stance towards the regime, in contrast to engaging with its apologists, reformists, and pro-regime lobbies who dream of an illusory peace.
This policy shift is reminiscent of the decisive moment at the Guadalupe meeting in 1979, when global leaders chose to withdraw support from the Shah of Iran. That decision precipitated the fall of his regime and the rise of a government that has since been a thorn in the side of international security. The current administration’s stance effectively closes the door on negotiations with a regime characterized by criminality and a lack of legitimacy, acknowledging that diplomacy with such an entity is not just fruitless but counterproductive.
This recalibration of U.S. policy towards Iran comes at a crucial juncture. The Iranian regime’s alignment with Russia in the Ukraine conflict, its belligerence towards Israel, and its role in destabilizing the Middle East underscore the urgent need for a strategic rethink in Washington. The call for regime change, or at least a significant shift in Iran’s political landscape, is now being seriously considered as part of the long-term U.S. strategy. Such a transformation, anticipated to require three to five years, aims at dismantling the terrorist networks underpinning Iran’s current regime, thereby paving the way for a more stable and peace-oriented governance structure.
As the Biden administration embarks on this bold new course, it is imperative that both the current administration and its successors maintain a steadfast focus on the end goal: a democratic, stable, and terrorism-free Iran. The lessons of history, coupled with the present geopolitical realities, demand a robust and unwavering approach to redefining U.S.-Iran relations. The hope is that this change not only alters the trajectory of Iran’s domestic and foreign policy but also contributes to a more secure and peaceful global order.
In the arena of potential leadership alternatives, the figure of Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi stands out as a beacon of hope for many within Iran and the diaspora. Unlike the fragmented and often ideologically aligned opposition groups that emerged from the 1979 revolution, Pahlavi represents a unifying symbol for change. The so-called opposition groups in the diaspora, many of whom are remnants of the revolutionary fervor that brought the current regime to power, often come across as “paper tigers.” These entities, while vocal, lack substantive credibility and influence within Iranian society. Their historical alignment with the Khomeinist ideology and the 1979 revolt renders them less appealing to a populace yearning for genuine transformation.
In stark contrast, Reza Pahlavi’s prominence and the slogans chanted by the Iranian youth in his support are undeniable. He embodies a vision of Iran that diverges significantly from the current regime’s trajectory, resonating with the aspirations of a younger generation eager for change. This widespread support for Pahlavi among Iran’s youth underscores the critical need for a leadership alternative that can galvanize the population towards a peaceful and democratic future.
The path forward for Iran is fraught with challenges, yet the emerging consensus around figures like Reza Pahlavi offers a glimmer of hope. It is a testament to the desire for leadership that not only understands the grievances of the Iranian people but also possesses the legitimacy and vision to steer the country towards a brighter future. As the international community watches and weighs its options, it is crucial to recognize and support the internal dynamics and voices calling for change within Iran. The journey towards a new Iran is complex, but with the right leadership and international support, a transition towards democracy and stability is within reach.
