Ohad Tal says Pahlavi represents hope for secular Iran and renewed Israel alliance.
Knesset member Ohad Tal, chairman of the Religious Zionist faction, recently returned from the United States where he met with Reza Pahlavi during demonstrations opposing Iran’s ruling regime.
Speaking to Arutz Sheva, Tal described Pahlavi as “a lot of hope,” arguing that his leadership could trigger a dramatic transformation in Iran — not only for Israel, but for the broader Middle East.
Tal said that under Pahlavi, Iran could shift from what he described as a radical Islamist regime that exports terror to a secular democratic state. He characterized Pahlavi as deeply supportive of Israel and suggested that regime change could restore the pre-1979 strategic partnership between Jerusalem and Tehran.
Demonstrations Signal Growing Support
Tal noted that while Pahlavi long enjoyed backing among Iranian exiles, recent protests inside Iran showed demonstrators openly chanting his name. According to Tal, when Pahlavi called for coordinated gatherings, large numbers responded.
“These developments bring us a lot of hope,” Tal said, emphasizing that internal legitimacy is crucial for any future transition.
Tal referenced statements by Donald Trump that regime change in Iran would be “the best outcome,” and cited remarks by Lindsey Graham suggesting American assistance may be forthcoming.
However, Tal cautioned that dismantling Iran’s leadership infrastructure would require extensive preparation and sustained American presence. Removing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei alone, he said, would not be sufficient.
Tal also addressed internal US political debates, pointing to media figures such as Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and Nick Fuentes, whom he accused of undermining US-Israel relations. Despite tensions, Tal expressed confidence that bipartisan recognition of Israel’s strategic value is increasing.
He argued that US assistance to Israel is mutually beneficial, citing intelligence cooperation and joint defense projects like Iron Dome, parts of which are produced in the United States.
Strengthening Jewish Identity Abroad
During his US visit, Tal also met with Jewish community leaders. He warned of growing disconnection among younger generations and emphasized investment in Jewish education.
He outlined efforts to partner with philanthropists to expand access to Jewish day schools, saying such initiatives ensure future generations remain connected to their identity and to Israel.
On domestic matters, Tal described what he termed a “revolution” in Judea and Samaria, including recognition of tens of thousands of dunams as state land and authorization of new communities and housing units.
Regarding the drafting of haredim into the IDF, Tal called for a gradual and sensitive approach. He supported expanding enlistment frameworks while also increasing yeshiva and preparatory program support.
Finally, Tal advocated reform in Israel’s dairy sector. Criticizing licensing limits on milk production, he argued for opening the market, permitting imports to reduce shortages, and shifting to direct farmer compensation mechanisms to lower consumer prices.
Tal framed both foreign and domestic initiatives as part of a broader strategic vision — strengthening Israel’s security posture while preparing for potential historic shifts in the Middle East.
