Trump Stops Short of Backing Iranian Opposition Figure
US President Donald Trump has expressed uncertainty over Reza Pahlavi’s ability to lead Iran. While speaking in an exclusive interview, Trump described Pahlavi as “very nice.” However, he questioned whether the exiled opposition figure could gain support inside Iran.
Trump made the remarks during a 30-minute interview in the Oval Office. He said the United States is not yet at a stage where it can back a specific alternative leadership for Iran. Trump stressed that internal acceptance is critical for any future leader.
Reza Pahlavi is the son of Iran’s last shah. The monarchy was overthrown during the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Pahlavi has lived outside Iran since before his father’s removal from power. In recent years, he has emerged as a prominent voice supporting Iranian protests.
Trump said he was unsure if Iranians would accept Pahlavi’s leadership. He added that if the country did support him, he would have no objection. The comments went further than Trump’s earlier stance, when he said he had no plans to meet Pahlavi.
Iran’s opposition remains deeply divided. It includes monarchists, reformists, and other ideological groups. Analysts say these groups lack unified leadership inside Iran. This fragmentation has weakened their ability to challenge the clerical government.
Iran Protests and Possibility of Regime Collapse
Trump said it is possible Iran’s current government could collapse. He added that any regime can fail under pressure. The president described the period ahead as unpredictable and significant.
Iran has seen widespread protests against clerical rule. Thousands of people have reportedly been killed in a government crackdown. Trump has repeatedly warned that the US could intervene in support of protesters. However, he has not outlined clear steps.
Trump’s comments suggest caution despite strong rhetoric. He appears reluctant to endorse a specific opposition leader. The White House has not announced any formal policy shift on Iran.
The president is nearing the end of the first year of his second term. During the interview, he highlighted his administration’s achievements. He held up a binder that he said detailed progress since January 20, 2025.
Trump also spoke about domestic politics. He warned Republicans not to expect easy wins in upcoming midterm elections. He said the ruling party often loses seats during midterms. Despite this, he said his party would try hard to win.
Ukraine War, Federal Reserve, and Global Diplomacy
Trump also addressed the war in Ukraine. He blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for stalled peace talks. Trump said Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to make a deal. He claimed Zelensky remains the main obstacle.
Trump has faced criticism for failing to end the war quickly. During his campaign, he said he could resolve it in a day. His latest comments place responsibility squarely on Kyiv.
He also dismissed criticism from within his own party. Some Republican senators have opposed his Federal Reserve nominees. They cited concerns over a Justice Department probe into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. Trump said lawmakers should remain loyal.
Trump brushed aside warnings from JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon. Dimon had said interference with the Fed could raise inflation. Trump said he did not care about the criticism.
The president confirmed plans to meet Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The meeting will take place at the White House. Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize last year and dedicated it to Trump.
Trump praised Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodriguez. He said they had a productive discussion earlier in the day. Trump also highlighted the strength of the US economy.
He said he would promote economic success at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The White House confirmed bilateral meetings with leaders from Switzerland, Poland, and Egypt.
