Exiled Son of Iran's Last Shah Addresses CPAC, Signals Readiness to Lead Transition

Washington D.C. The exiled son of Iran's last Shah, Reza Pahlavi, addressed the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held in the United States. This conference is long considered an influential platform for supporters of former US President Donald Trump.

During his address, Pahlavi reiterated his claim that he is uniquely suited to lead a transitional government in Iran, signaling his readiness to return home for the first time in 47 years. Addressing the conference, he urged the audience to imagine Iran transforming from 'Death to America' to 'God Bless America.'

"If Iran becomes free, America will gain a great friend again," he said. He also presented a vision of an Iran where hostage-taking ends, the Strait of Hormuz is not closed, and the global community is not pressured.

Although Pahlavi's stance is pro-American, Trump has expressed doubts about his potential leadership. Trump stated earlier this month that he was unsure if Iran would accept Pahlavi's leadership, suggesting that someone from within Iran would be more suitable to lead, though he did not specify whom.

Pahlavi's father, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was overthrown by the Iranian Revolution, an uprising primarily led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Khomeini established the Islamic Republic in Iran. The Shah's regime was ended by widespread support from various groups dissatisfied with the existing system, economic problems, and secular policies.