Thu Jan 15 04:49:09 UTC 2026: # Trump Expresses Hesitation on Reza Pahlavi’s Leadership Potential Amidst Iranian Protests

The Story:
In a wide-ranging interview, U.S. President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing Iranian protests, expressing reservations about Iranian Opposition figure Reza Pahlavi’s ability to lead Iran. While acknowledging Pahlavi “seems very nice,” Trump questioned his support within Iran. The President also blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the stalemate in negotiations with Russia and dismissed Republican criticism regarding the Justice Department probe into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. He further discussed the U.S. economy, Venezuela, and upcoming midterm elections.

Key Points:

  • President Trump acknowledged ongoing protests in Iran and the possibility of the current regime falling.
  • He expressed uncertainty regarding Reza Pahlavi’s capacity to garner support and lead Iran, despite acknowledging him as “very nice.”
  • Trump blamed President Zelenskyy for obstructing a peace deal with Russia, stating that Putin is “ready to make a deal.”
  • He dismissed Republican concerns about the Justice Department’s investigation into Jerome Powell, emphasizing the need for party loyalty.
  • Trump is scheduled to meet with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and praised the acting president of Venezuela, Delcy Rodriguez.
  • He plans to tout the strength of the U.S. economy at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Trump administration is taking a cautious approach to the Iranian protests, stopping short of fully endorsing Reza Pahlavi as a potential leader.
  • Trump’s continued criticism of Zelenskyy indicates a persistent divergence in views on the Russia-Ukraine war and potential paths to resolution.
  • The President’s dismissal of Republican concerns over the Powell investigation highlights internal tensions within the Republican party.
  • The outreach to Venezuelan figures, including both Machado and Rodriguez, signals a complex strategy following the earlier ousting of Nicolas Maduro.

Impact Analysis:

  • The U.S. position on Iran could influence the future trajectory of the protests and any potential transition of power. The hesitations could embolden the current regime.
  • Trump’s stance on the Ukraine-Russia war may prolong the conflict if the U.S. maintains a position perceived as pro-Russia by Ukraine.
  • The internal Republican divisions could weaken the party’s ability to effectively govern, especially with the upcoming midterm elections.
  • The situation in Venezuela and the role of the U.S. may set precedents for foreign policy interventions and leadership transitions in other countries.

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