Iran reformist Pezeshkian wins run-off presidential election

Iran’s reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian, who advocates improved ties with the West, on July 6 won a run-off presidential election against ultra-conservative Saeed Jalili, the Interior Ministry said.

The election came against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions due to the Gaza war, a dispute with the West over Iran’s nuclear programme, and domestic discontent over the state of Iran’s sanctions-hit economy.

Mr Pezeshkian received more than 16 million votes – or around 54 per cent – and Mr Jalili over 13 million – roughly 44 per cent – of about 30 million votes cast, electoral authority spokesman Mohsen Eslami said.

Voter turnout was 49.8 per cent, Mr Eslami added, up from a record low of about 40 per cent during the first round.

In his first comments after winning, Mr Pezeshkian said the vote was the start of a “partnership” with the Iranian people.

“The difficult path ahead will not be smooth except with your companionship, empathy and trust. I extend my hand to you,” he said in a post on social media platform X.

The death of ultra-conservative president Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash necessitated the election, which was not due until 2025.

Under Mr Raisi, Iran sought improved relations with China and Russia while mending ties with its Arab neighbours, chiefly Saudi Arabia, to avert deeper isolation.

Saudi Arabia led Gulf states in congratulating Mr Pezeshkian. Both Russia and China expressed hopes for further reinforcement of ties.

Mr Pezeshkian is a 69-year-old heart surgeon whose only previous government experience came as health minister about two decades ago.