'Time to end Islamic republic': Exiled prince Reza Pahlavi urges Donald Trump to help Iranian people
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 15, 2026
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Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last shah, has called on U.S. President Donald Trump to help end the Islamic Republic during his speech at the Munich Security Conference. Pahlavi, who has lived in exile since before the 1979 Iranian revolution, emphasized that the time has come to address the demands of the Iranian people, who are seeking an end to the current regime rather than mere reforms. He urged Trump to support the Iranian people in their quest for change, echoing the calls from those who have suffered under the Islamic Republic’s rule.
Pahlavi directly appealed to Trump, highlighting the faith that many Iranians have placed in the U.S. leader’s promises of assistance. He noted that the Iranian people are looking for help to bring about a transition away from the Islamic republic, which has been marked by widespread protests and a harsh crackdown by authorities. Trump has previously expressed support for regime change in Iran, deploying additional military forces to the region as a show of force. However, Pahlavi’s call comes amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with the latter experiencing significant internal unrest.
The significance of Pahlavi’s appeal lies in its potential impact on the global stage, particularly given Iran’s strategic importance in the Middle East. His advocacy for democratic change aligns with broader concerns about human rights and political freedom, making it a topic of interest for international audiences. While Pahlavi has faced criticism from some quarters for his support of Israel and ties to an autocratic past, his message resonates with those who believe that ending the Islamic republic is crucial for Iran’s future stability and regional security.
Trump’s response to Pahlavi’s appeal remains uncertain, but it underscores the delicate balance between U.S. interests in the region and the desire for democratic change. As tensions continue to escalate, the outcome of this situation will have far-reaching implications for Iran, its people, and the global community.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/15/2026