Four Key Points to Understand from Iran’s Presidential Runoff

Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate, has won Iran’s presidential runoff, defeating hard-line conservative Saeed Jalili. The election saw an increase in voter turnout, reflecting a desire for change. Pezeshkian’s win signals a return to a moderate reformist agenda in Iran, promising to disband the morality police and improve relations with the West. While the president can shape domestic policies, ultimate power lies with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Pezeshkian aims to negotiate with the U.S. to lift sanctions and improve the economy, plagued by inflation. His willingness to engage with the West contrasts with his rival Jalili’s more hard-line stance. Iran’s support for militant groups in the Middle East and animosity towards Israel are unlikely to change under the new president. Pezeshkian’s win is seen as a step towards a more moderate Iran, but significant challenges lie ahead in reshaping domestic and foreign policies to meet the country’s needs and aspirations.

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