Timeline
February 13, 2026 — February 20, 2026
World
Timeline: How Trump's Call for Iran Regime Change and Pahlavi's Opposition Movement Unfolded Over 8 Days
In February 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly called for regime change in Iran while deploying military assets to the Middle East, coinciding with a resurgence of the Iranian opposition movement led by exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. This timeline tracks the escalating tensions between diplomatic negotiations and calls for the overthrow of Iran's Islamic Republic, culminating in massive demonstrations across multiple continents.
10 events · 7 days · 28 source articles
Fri, Feb 13, 2026
Major
Trump says regime change in Iran would be 'best thing' and deploys second carrier
President Trump made his most overt call yet for toppling Iran's clerical establishment, stating that a change of government would be the 'best thing that could happen.' He simultaneously ordered a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to increase military pressure on Tehran. The comments came as the U.S. was pushing Iran to make a deal limiting its nuclear program.
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Moderate
Geneva talks scheduled between U.S. and Iran for February 18
Switzerland confirmed that Oman would mediate a fresh round of talks in Geneva on Tuesday, February 18, between U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Iranian representatives. Despite Trump's aggressive rhetoric about regime change, diplomatic channels remained open as both sides sought to address the nuclear dispute.
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Major
Exiled Crown Prince Pahlavi appeals to Trump at Munich Security Conference
Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last shah, directly called on President Trump to help the Iranian people 'bury' the current regime at the Munich Security Conference. He declared 'it is time to end the Islamic Republic' and urged Iranians to continue demonstrations, calling for coordinated chanting from homes and rooftops at 8:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Major
Massive rallies erupt in Munich and London supporting Iranian opposition
Around 200,000-250,000 supporters of Reza Pahlavi gathered in Munich near the Security Conference, calling for international pressure on the Islamic Republic. The demonstrations were described as a 'global day of action' following deadly government crackdowns on protests within Iran. Similar rallies took place in London and other cities.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Major
Pahlavi pledges to lead Iran to 'secular democratic future'
At the Munich rally, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi told the massive crowd of supporters that he was ready to guarantee a transition to a 'secular democratic future' for Iran. He positioned himself as the leader of a potential transition, promising Iranians the opportunity to decide their future government through democratic means.
Sun, Feb 15, 2026
Moderate
Pahlavi calls potential U.S. intervention 'humanitarian' effort
In an appearance on Fox News's 'Sunday Morning Futures,' Crown Prince Pahlavi characterized any potential U.S. intervention in Iran as a 'humanitarian' effort, citing the thousands of protesters killed under the regime since anti-government demonstrations began in January. This marked an explicit appeal for foreign military or political intervention.
Mon, Feb 16, 2026
Moderate
Israeli official meets with Pahlavi, expresses hope for Iran's transformation
Knesset member Ohad Tal revealed he met with Reza Pahlavi during recent U.S. demonstrations against the Iranian regime. Tal described Pahlavi as 'the best friend of Israel' and said his potential leadership could transform Iran from a radical fundamentalist state into a secular democracy, representing 'a radical change not just for Israel, but for the Middle East.'
Wed, Feb 18, 2026
Moderate
Second round of U.S.-Iran talks held in Geneva
U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with Iranian representatives in Oman-mediated talks in Geneva. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated the president was still hoping for a diplomatic solution with Tehran, despite the escalating military posture and regime change rhetoric.
Thu, Feb 19, 2026
Major
Iran rejects nuclear restrictions as second U.S. carrier approaches region
Iran's atomic energy chief declared that no country could deprive the Islamic Republic of its right to nuclear enrichment, responding to Trump's continued hints at military action. Reports confirmed a second aircraft carrier was en route to Middle East waters, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln already deployed to the Gulf in January.
Fri, Feb 20, 2026
Minor
Pahlavi dynasty's enduring influence examined amid revolt
Analysis highlighted how the Pahlavi family has become a focal point for anti-regime activists protesting across Iran and worldwide, despite being deposed 47 years earlier in the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The family's historical rise to power through a 1921 military coup and subsequent modernization efforts were examined as context for understanding their contemporary appeal to opposition movements.
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