Masud Pezeshkian, a reformist known for his moderate stance and advocacy for rapprochement with the West, has emerged victorious in Iran's presidential election. The Iranian Electoral Commission confirmed Pezeshkian's win in the second round, positioning him as the country's next president.
The 69-year-old heart surgeon secured 53.6% of the votes, defeating ultra-conservative Saeed Jalili, who garnered 44.3%. The election saw a turnout of 49.9%, with 30,573,931 votes cast, a significant increase from the record low 39.9% turnout in the first round held last weekend.
Pezeshkian, a former health minister and parliamentarian, will become the ninth president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, following the death of the ultra-conservative Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May. Initially a relatively obscure political figure, Pezeshkian gained traction with his message of moderation, his criticism of the mandatory veil, and his calls for closer ties with Western nations.
His campaign resonated with voters dissatisfied with Raisi's policies, which were marked by increased social and political cutbacks. Pezeshkian's rise also sparked concern among voters wary of Jalili's reputation for intransigence.
Pezeshkian's victory marks the return of a reformist president, a significant shift amidst heightened regional tensions and domestic unrest over policies such as the compulsory veil and restrictions on freedoms. While the Iranian president has considerable influence over domestic issues and some foreign policy decisions, the ultimate authority remains with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who holds extensive powers as the head of state.