Iran's New President Presents Cabinet Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has presented his cabinet to parliament for a vote of confidence. His nomination of seasoned diplomat Abbas Araqchi as foreign minister comes at a time of heightened regional tensions. The incoming cabinet's approval is pending, with key roles filled by experienced individuals, including a candidate for oil minister and a rare female nominee for transportation minister.

Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, presented his cabinet to parliament on Sunday for a vote of confidence, state media reported. He has proposed seasoned diplomatic figure Abbas Araqchi as foreign minister during a time of intense regional tensions.

Pezeshkian's government formation comes amid the increased risk of the Gaza conflict escalating into a wider regional war, following the killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, which have prompted threats of retaliation against Israel. The president won a snap election last month, pledging to improve international ties and ease domestic social restrictions.

The proposed cabinet lineup awaits parliamentary approval. Parliamentary commissions will start assessing the candidates on Monday, stated parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf. Araqchi, 61, a key figure in the 2015 nuclear deal negotiations, is expected to navigate the complex diplomatic landscape. In a notable nomination, Farzaneh Sadeq has been proposed as road and transportation minister, potentially becoming only the second female cabinet minister in Iran's history.

(With inputs from agencies.)