TEHRAN: Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist figure and prominent heart surgeon, has emerged victorious in Iran’s presidential run-off elections, announced the interior ministry on Saturday. The closely contested race saw Pezeshkian pitted against Saeed Jalili, a conservative and former nuclear negotiator.
With a reported voter turnout of approximately 50%, over 30 million Iranians cast their ballots in the election. Pezeshkian secured more than 16 million votes, while Jalili garnered around 13 million. Approximately 600,000 ballots were deemed invalid.
The run-off elections were necessitated after none of the four initial candidates attained more than 50% of the vote in the first round, which witnessed a historic low turnout at around 40%.
In the initial round, Masoud Pezeshkian led with approximately 42% of the vote, while Jalili followed closely with around 39%, according to Iran’s elections authority.
The presidential election, originally slated for 2025, was expedited following the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash the previous month.
Pezeshkian, known for his pragmatic stance and endorsements from former presidents Mohammad Khatami and Hasan Rouhani, has promised a conciliatory approach both domestically and internationally. In his victory speech, he pledged to extend “the hand of friendship to everyone,” emphasizing national unity and progress.
Analysts speculate that Pezeshkian’s presidency could potentially ease tensions surrounding Iran’s nuclear program, stalled negotiations with major global powers, and promote socio-political liberalization. However, concerns remain among voters about his commitment to challenging the country’s entrenched clerical and security elite.
At 69 years old, Pezeshkian brings a wealth of experience as a former health minister and combatant during the Iran-Iraq war. His personal resilience, having raised his children alone after losing his wife and one child in a tragic accident, resonates with many Iranians.
As Iran navigates domestic challenges and international pressures, Pezeshkian’s presidency is poised to shape the country’s future trajectory amidst ongoing geopolitical dynamics.
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