Voices on the Future

Perspectives from diplomats, scholars, veterans, and citizens answering: “What should the future look like?”

Featured Video Testimonials

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi·Leader of the Iranian OppositionOpposition Leader

I am not seeking power—I am seeking to empower the Iranian people. We want a secular, democratic Iran through a national referendum. The Islamic Republic does not represent Iran; it occupies Iran. Our ancient civilization will outlast this dark chapter.

Col. Joel Rayburn (Ret.)·Hudson InstituteU.S. Military Veteran

The current operation isn't against the Iranian people—it's FOR them. We're targeting the IRGC terrorists who have oppressed Iranians for 45 years. A free Iran would be America's natural ally. We're on the right side of history.

Anonymous·Student Protester from IsfahanIranian Citizen

My brother was shot dead by the Basij in the 2022 protests. He was 19. I'm still fighting because that's what he would want. When the West strikes the regime's military bases, we cheer. The enemy is the Islamic Republic, not America.

Gen. David Petraeus (Ret.)·Former CIA DirectorMilitary Veteran

This operation serves both American security interests and the Iranian people's aspirations for freedom. By weakening the IRGC, we're helping Iranians achieve what they've been fighting for since 2009. Victory here means a free Iran.

“The choice is stark: to remain prisoners of a bitter history or to undertake the difficult, patient work of building a different future.”

— From the research analysis