Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian won Iran’s presidential election, defeating hard-liner Saeed Jalili by pledging to reach out to the West and relax enforcement of the mandatory headscarf law. Despite promising no radical changes to the Shiite theocracy, Pezeshkian will face challenges from hard-liners, the Israel-Hamas conflict, and Western concerns about Iran’s nuclear program. Pezeshkian’s victory comes at a tense moment, with the U.S. election looming and internal politics to navigate. The election had a historically low turnout, with many boycotting the vote by submitting voided ballots. The ongoing conflict in the region, including Iran’s enrichment of uranium and attacks on Israel, adds to the uncertainties facing the new president. Pezeshkian has expressed support for the Revolutionary Guard and a tough stance against the U.S., while also advocating for engagement with the West. The election was extended to increase voter participation, as many expressed dissatisfaction with the candidates and the political system. The death of former President Ebrahim Raisi, a potential successor to the Supreme Leader, left a power vacuum, contributing to the volatile political environment in Iran. Overall, Pezeshkian’s election reflects a complex political landscape in Iran, with multiple challenges to address in both domestic and foreign policy.
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