Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran’s new President

Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, a moderate reformist, represents hope for Iranians seeking fewer social restrictions and a sensible foreign policy. The 69-year-old cardiac surgeon and former health minister won the runoff against Saeed Jalili with strong support from the urban middle class and youth angered by years of crackdowns.

Pezeshkian's victory can be seen as a step towards easing tensions over Iran's advancing nuclear program. He has pledged to revive stalled negotiations with major powers to restore the 2015 nuclear pact and promote social and political liberalisation. However, he remains loyal to Iran's theocratic rule, promising not to challenge Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Born in 1954 in Mahabad, He has served as a legislator since 2008 and has been an advocate for minority rights, often criticising the regime's crackdown on dissent.

Pezeshkian's campaign also focused on relaxing the enforcement of the mandatory hijab law, which has been a source of public discontent. His election comes at a critical time for Iran, which faces economic challenges from mismanagement, corruption, and U.S. sanctions. While he has pledged to revitalize the economy, his authority is constrained by the prevailing powers of Khamenei and his allies.

Supporters hope for incremental improvements in civil liberties and a normalised foreign policy, but skeptics are dubios about his ability to enact substantial changes given the dominant influence of Khamenei and his inner circle over key decision-making processes.

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