Avi Kaner, a prominent business leader and advocate for international diplomacy, shares his thoughts on pressing geopolitical issues in the Middle East. In this interview, Kaner discusses the future of U.S.-Israel relations under Donald Trump, the potential return of the Iranian monarchy, and how these developments might reshape regional dynamics. With a strong belief in the principle of “peace through strength,” Kaner provides a compelling vision for the future of the region amidst escalating tensions and evolving alliances.
U.S.-Israel Relations Under Donald Trump
Question: How might Donald Trump reshape the relationship between the United States and Israel in the face of Iran, and will this lead to escalation or diplomatic solutions?
Answer:Political support for the relationship between the United States and Israel has always been non-partisan. Both Democratic and Republican leaders have reaffirmed this relationship, including defense against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Donald Trump has repeatedly used the expression “peace through strength” when he discusses the Middle East. During his first term, he withdrew from the JCPOA nuclear deal, viewing the deal as appeasement that would not work in the long term. The Iranian mullahs understand that the United States under Donald Trump is serious and will not appease them. A diplomatic solution is unlikely while this terror regime remains in power.
The Return of the Iranian Monarchy and Regional Impact
Question: Do you see that Trump’s public support for some opposition movements inside Iran could accelerate the return of the monarchy, and how would this affect the regional balance of power?
Answer: Public support against the mullah regime is imperative to embolden the people of Iran to take back their country. It is up to the people of Iran to decide what governance they would like, with a monarchy being one of the options. If the monarchy does return, the Crown Prince will quickly end the state of war with Israel and the West. Sanctions will quickly be removed, and the Iranian people will prosper.
The Role of the U.S. and Israel in Iran’s Political Future
Question: If the return of the monarchy in Iran becomes a reality, what role could the United States and Israel play in bringing about and supporting this change?
Answer:The United States and Israel cannot impose a form of government on Iran, but they can support the decision the people make, including returning the monarchy.
Trump’s Focus: Confrontation or Negotiation?
Question: In your opinion, will the Trump administration focus more on an alliance with Israel to confront the Iranian threat, or will it try to open new channels for negotiations with Iran?
Answer: The Trump administration will prioritize the need to defend Israel and Middle East allies against the Iranian regime. Israel and Saudi Arabia will normalize relations during the Trump presidency and form a defense alliance. It goes back to “peace through strength.”
