Reza Pahlavi at CPAC: "Do Not Strike a Deal with the Current Iranian Regime"

Speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Grapevine, Texas, on Saturday, March 28, 2026, Pahlavi emphasized that any agreement with the Islamic Republic would be a betrayal of the Iranian people's democratic aspirations.

A Rejection of Diplomacy with the "Remnants" Addressing a standing ovation, Pahlavi argued that the current regime is incapable of being a true partner for peace. He characterized their willingness to negotiate as a tactical maneuver to "buy time, cheat, and steal" rather than a genuine shift in policy.

The "Maximum Pressure" Path: Pahlavi called on the Trump administration to "stay the course" of maximum pressure, suggesting that the only path to regional stability is the complete dismantling of the clerical establishment.

MIGA – Make Iran Great Again: In a strategic nod to the President’s own rhetoric, Pahlavi adopted the slogan "Make Iran Great Again" (MIGA). He presented a vision of a future free Iran as a strategic and economic partner that could generate over a trillion dollars for the American economy through trade and cooperation.

The Role of a Transitional Leader As the U.S.-Israel war against Iran enters its second month, Pahlavi positioned himself as the figure ready to guide a democratic transition. He urged Washington to stop looking for moderates within the regime and instead empower the "educated, entrepreneurial, and pro-democracy" citizens of Iran.

Pahlavi’s remarks come at a time of visible division within the American right regarding the war's duration and cost. However, his hawkish stance aligned closely with the administration’s "unconditional surrender" policy, adding significant momentum to the argument for total regime change. He concluded his address by expressing hope that while 2026 marks the 250th birthday of the United States, it will also be remembered as the "year of Iran's rebirth."