Iran's Supreme Leader Endorses Masoud Pezeshkian as New President
Pezeshkian, a reformist, takes office amid economic challenges and regional tensions, promising pragmatic diplomacy and internal reforms.
- Masoud Pezeshkian, a heart surgeon and reformist, won the presidency in a runoff election with 54% of the vote.
- Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's endorsement signals limited but potential shifts in Iran's domestic and foreign policies.
- Pezeshkian aims to revive the 2015 nuclear deal and improve relations with the West, despite hardliner resistance.
- Economic recovery and sanctions relief are top priorities for the new administration.
- Pezeshkian's cabinet appointments, including Mohammad Reza Aref as vice president, reflect a blend of reformist and moderate figures.