NEW YORK, Thursday, January 15, 2026 (WNP): Exiled Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi has outlined an expansive vision for Iran’s future following what he described as the eventual fall of the Islamic Republic, pledging a dramatic shift in the country’s foreign policy, security posture, economic orientation and governance framework.
In a statement addressed to the international community, Pahlavi argued that Iran has come to be associated globally with “terrorism, extremism and poverty” under the Islamic Republic, asserting that this image does not reflect the country’s “true identity” as a peaceful, prosperous and outward-looking nation.
He said this vision was rooted in Iran’s pre-1979 past and, in his words, would re-emerge once the current system collapses.
Outlining his proposed roadmap, Pahlavi said a “free Iran” would end its nuclear military program and immediately cease support for what he described as terrorist groups. He pledged that Iran would cooperate with regional and global partners to counter terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking and extremist ideologies, positioning the country as a stabilizing force in the Middle East and a “responsible partner” in global security.
On diplomacy, Pahlavi called for the normalization of relations with the United States, saying ties with Washington and the American people would be restored. He also announced that a future Iranian government under his vision would immediately recognize the State of Israel and seek to expand the Abraham Accords into what he termed the “Cyrus Accords,” aimed at bringing together Iran, Israel and Arab states under a new regional framework.
“A new chapter will begin, grounded in mutual recognition, sovereignty and national interest,” he said.
Pahlavi also emphasized Iran’s energy potential, noting that the country holds some of the world’s largest oil and gas reserves. He said a post–Islamic Republic Iran would become a reliable energy supplier to global markets, with transparent policymaking, responsible conduct and predictable pricing.
On governance, he pledged to adopt and enforce international transparency standards, combat money laundering, dismantle organized corruption and ensure that public institutions are accountable to the people.
Economically, Pahlavi described Iran as one of the world’s “last great untapped markets,” highlighting its educated population and global diaspora. He said a secular and democratic Iran would open its economy to trade, investment and innovation, while also seeking opportunities to invest abroad. “Opportunity will replace isolation,” he said.
Describing his proposal as “practical” rather than abstract, Pahlavi urged the international community to stand with the Iranian people, arguing that the establishment of a secular, democratic system would restore dignity to Iranians while benefiting regional and global stability.
“A free Iran will be a force for peace, for prosperity and for partnership,” he concluded.
The statement has already sparked intense debate among analysts, historians and religious scholars, with supporters viewing it as a blueprint for reintegration into the global order, while critics argue it raises fundamental questions about sovereignty, identity and Iran’s historical experience—issues likely to remain central as discussions over the country’s future continue.


