Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the former Shah of Iran, is fast emerging as a potentially pivotal figure in Middle Eastern politics. As the only major Iranian opposition leader to openly advocate for a pro-West and pro-Israel position, Pahlavi’s vision for a post-theocratic Iran is not just a matter of internal reform, but a potential sea change for regional stability and global security.
This was underscored by his high-profile visit in April 2023 to Israel, where he met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and by his adopting of the Cyrus Accords, which seek to revive the ancient Persian-Judean tradition of peaceful cooperation.
Pahlavi’s willingness to restore ties with Israel, bring Israeli technology to address Iran’s water crisis, and re-establish economic partnerships reminisc