Iran's electoral authority announced on Saturday that Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate, emerged victorious in the presidential election, defeating his hardline opponent in a crucial vote amidst heightened tensions both at home and abroad. Pezeshkian secured 53.6% of the 30.5 million votes counted in Friday's runoff, while his ultraconservative rival, Saeed Jalili, garnered 44.3% of the votes. The voter turnout was reported at 49.8%.
Pezeshkian emerged victorious in the second round of voting, having garnered the most votes in the initial round, surpassing Jalili. The first round witnessed the lowest voter turnout in a presidential election since the establishment of the Islamic Republic in 1979. During a triumphant address in Tehran last Saturday, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to the Iranian populace and pledged to be a "voice for the voiceless." "I am here to serve the people of Iran. We are committed to serving you, dear citizens of our nation," Pezeshkian declared at the gravesite of Imam Khomeini, the architect of Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution and the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The 69-year-old cardiac surgeon and legislator acknowledged the nation's challenges, emphasizing the need for unity in what he described as a new era for Iran. "Let us come together, stand united, and work in harmony," he urged. "Together, we can address all governmental challenges, be they economic, financial, military, or social."
Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei expressed his gratitude to the candidates and extended his congratulations to the president-elect for the swift and transparent elections following President Ebrahim Raisi's tragic passing. The sudden election was conducted after Raisi's unfortunate demise in a helicopter accident in Iran's remote northwest, alongside Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other officials. Khamenei urged Pezeshkian to continue the path set by Raisi. The Guardian Council, a significant 12-member body responsible for supervising elections and legislation, must validate the election results before Pezeshkian assumes office. Pezeshkian will lead a nation grappling with growing international isolation, internal unrest, a struggling economy, and the looming threat of a direct confrontation with its long-standing adversary, Israel.
The legislator stood as the sole reformist contender competing for the highest elected position in the nation following the disqualification of numerous other candidates. He has shown a preference for engaging in discussions with Iran's adversaries, especially regarding its nuclear program, viewing it as a way to tackle the country's internal challenges.
During a presidential debate before the second round of voting, he expressed his determination to break the deadlock and address the country's issues. Leaders from Russia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Syria were quick to offer their congratulations to Pezeshkian. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman emphasized his eagerness to strengthen the ties between their nations and work towards common goals. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his hopes for enhanced cooperation across various sectors following Pezeshkian's election, aiming to bolster regional security and stability. Although the Iranian president holds some authority, the Supreme Leader has the final decision-making power on all state matters.