Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate, has won the Iranian presidential runoff against hard-line rival Saeed Jalili, according to results released by the interior ministry. Pezeshkian secured 16.3 million votes to Jalili’s 13.5 million. The victory marks a blow to the conservative faction in Iran’s ruling establishment and a win for the relatively moderate reformist camp.
Pezeshkian, a 69-year-old cardiac surgeon, campaigned on advocating moderate policies at home and improving relations with the West. His win comes after a record low turnout in the first round of elections due to widespread boycotts. However, the prospect of a hard-line administration that would enforce strict social rules and remain defiant in negotiations to lift international sanctions spurred voters to turn out.
In his victory speech, Pezeshkian thanked the young people who worked for Iran and expressed the need for companionship, compassion, and trust in the difficult path ahead. He emphasized the importance of fixing the economy through foreign policy, including negotiations to lift sanctions. Despite his opposition to mandatory hijab laws, Pezeshkian is unlikely to diverge from the state’s policy towards Israel.
The special election was held due to the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May. Pezeshkian’s victory is seen as a significant win for reformists in Iran, who have been marginalized in recent years. The president-elect faces a challenging task ahead, including an ailing economy, geopolitical tensions, and a frustrated electorate. Critics have blamed the government for economic woes, limited social freedoms, and isolation from the international community.
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