ORLANDO, FL - Reza Pahlavi's appearance at the 2026 CPAC conference, where he pledged to "make Iran great again" and urged the Trump administration to "stay the course" in its military conflict with Iran, raises serious concerns about the potential consequences of escalating U.S. intervention in the region.

Pahlavi's alignment with a conservative political action conference known for its hawkish foreign policy stances is troubling, particularly given the already devastating impact of the ongoing war on the Iranian people. His call for continued U.S. support ignores the potential for further destabilization, civilian casualties, and human rights violations.

Critics argue that Pahlavi's vision of "making Iran great again" may come at the expense of Iranian sovereignty and self-determination. They point to the historical legacy of U.S. intervention in the Middle East, which has often led to unintended consequences and prolonged instability.

The Trump administration's hardline approach to Iran, including its withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the imposition of crippling sanctions, has already had a devastating impact on the Iranian economy and the lives of ordinary Iranians. Continued military conflict will only exacerbate these problems, potentially leading to a humanitarian crisis.

Furthermore, Pahlavi's close association with the Trump administration raises questions about the legitimacy of his claims to represent the Iranian people. Many Iranians view the U.S. government with deep suspicion, given its history of supporting authoritarian regimes and interfering in Iranian affairs.

Progressive voices within the Iranian diaspora advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need for diplomacy, dialogue, and respect for Iranian sovereignty. They argue that the best way to achieve a more just and democratic Iran is through internal reform and grassroots movements, not through external intervention.

The CPAC conference, with its emphasis on conservative ideology and its promotion of militaristic foreign policy, provides a platform for voices that often disregard the human cost of war and the importance of international cooperation.

Pahlavi's appearance at CPAC serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked U.S. power and the need for a more nuanced and compassionate approach to foreign policy. It is crucial to listen to the voices of those who advocate for peace, diplomacy, and respect for human rights, rather than those who seek to escalate conflict and impose their will on other nations.

The long-term consequences of the U.S.-Iran conflict could include a prolonged period of instability in the Middle East, a rise in extremism, and a further erosion of international norms. It is imperative that the international community work together to de-escalate tensions and promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

The potential for environmental damage, displacement of populations, and the disruption of essential services are also significant concerns. The war in Iran not only affects the present generation but will also impact future generations to come.

Ultimately, the future of Iran should be determined by the Iranian people themselves, free from external interference and coercion. The U.S. government should prioritize diplomacy, human rights, and international law, rather than perpetuating a cycle of violence and intervention.

Supporting democratic movements within Iran is more likely to succeed than military intervention. Peace, dialogue and internal reform must be prioritized to achieve a just and democratic Iran.