Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian Wins Iran's Presidential Election

The electoral authority announced Saturday that Pezeshkian secured 53.6% of the 30.5 million votes counted in Friday’s runoff, while ultraconservative Saeed Jalili received 44.3%, according to state-run Press TV. Voter turnout was reported at 49.8%.

Pezeshkian emerged victorious in a second round of voting after leading the first round, which saw the lowest turnout for a presidential election since the Islamic Republic was established in 1979. In his victory speech in Tehran, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to the Iranian people and committed to being a “voice of the voiceless,” emphasizing unity and addressing the nation's challenges.

The 69-year-old heart surgeon and lawmaker acknowledged the difficulties ahead and called for collective effort to tackle economic, financial, military, and social issues. The country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, congratulated Pezeshkian and praised the swift organization of “free and transparent elections” following President Ebrahim Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash in May.

Khamenei advised Pezeshkian to continue Raisi’s path. The Guardian Council must certify the vote before Pezeshkian can assume office. Pezeshkian will lead a nation facing increasing international isolation, internal discontent, a struggling economy, and potential conflict with Israel.

As the sole reformist candidate, Pezeshkian favored dialogue with adversaries, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program, seeing it as essential to resolving domestic issues. He stressed the need to break the deadlock to address the country's problems during a presidential debate.

Global leaders, including those from Russia, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Syria, quickly extended their congratulations. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman expressed a desire to deepen bilateral relations, while Russian President Vladimir Putin anticipated expanded cooperation for regional security and stability. The US State Department acknowledged Pezeshkian’s victory but criticized the election as neither free nor fair, doubting it would lead to significant changes in Iran’s direction or human rights record.

Although the Iranian president has certain powers, the ultimate authority rests with the Supreme Leader, who has the final say on all state matters.