Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian Wins Iran's Presidential Election

Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian clinched victory in Iran's runoff presidential election, defeating hard-liner Saeed Jalili. Pezeshkian aims to improve ties with the West and ease enforcement of the mandatory headscarf law. Voter turnout was historically low, reflecting ongoing economic struggles and social unrest within the country.

Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian won Iran's runoff presidential election on Saturday. Pezeshkian, who promised to soften the enforcement of the country's mandatory headscarf law and improve relations with the West, defeated hard-liner Saeed Jalili by a margin of nearly three million votes.

Despite Pezeshkian's moderate approach, his leadership faces significant challenges, including a government dominated by hard-liners, regional tensions, and Western concerns over Iran's uranium enrichment activities. His victory comes amid a tense geopolitical landscape, with the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and uneasy U.S.-Iran relations.

With voter turnout at only 49.6%, the lowest since 1979, the election highlights the country's internal struggles. Supporters of Pezeshkian, a heart surgeon and long-time lawmaker, celebrated in the streets, while others remain cautious about the future trajectory under his presidency. As Iran navigates internal and external pressures, Pezeshkian's ability to foster unity and diplomatic engagement will be crucial.

(With inputs from agencies.)