In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Iranian politician Masoud Pezeshkian, who became the president-elect at the age of 69, recently won the runoff election against hard-liner Saeed Jalili in Iran. Pezeshkian’s victory followed the lowest voter turnout in the country’s history. His campaign focused on promises of change to address economic struggles and societal discontent, particularly surrounding issues like high prices, treatment of women, and internet censorship.
Pezeshkian, who aligns himself with moderate and reformist figures, aims to bring about improvements and restore relations with the West, including a possible return to the 2015 nuclear deal. The deal, initially signed by Iran and world powers, aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the deal was jeopardized when former President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from the agreement in 2018.
Born in Mahabad, Iran, on September 29, 1954, Pezeshkian has a background as a heart surgeon and has served in various governmental positions, including as Iran’s health minister. Throughout his political career, Pezeshkian has navigated the divide between hard-liners and reformists, often positioning himself as an independent voice.
Despite Pezeshkian’s pledges for change, he faces the task of rebuilding public trust, especially after the disenchantment caused by a violent crackdown on dissent and societal unrest. His stances on issues like the mandatory hijab law have resonated with voters seeking a shift in the country’s policies.
As Pezeshkian prepares to assume office, he acknowledges the challenges ahead, including the significant portion of the population that did not participate in the recent election. This underscores the necessity for the new president to address the grievances of the Iranian people and deliver on the promises he made during his campaign.
