Who Is Masoud Pezeshkian? Heart Surgeon Becomes Iran’s Next ‘Reformist’ President

The election of Masoud Pezeshkian as president of Iran is a significant event in the country’s political landscape. Although the country continues to operate within its current theocratic system, his moderate platform and promises focused on reforms offer hope for change in the Islamic Republic. His administration’s policies, particularly in relation to regional stability and economic cooperation, will be closely watched by the international community, including countries like India.

With the death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19, Iran’s presidential election is taking place against this backdrop. Only 39.92% of eligible voters voted, the lowest voter turnout since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Election victory and promises

In the second round of Iran’s presidential election, former heart surgeon turned legislator Masoud Pezeshkian defeated opponent Saeed Jalili with 53.7 percent of the vote. His victory was confirmed by the Interior Ministry, signaling a dramatic shift in Iranian politics toward moderation. Pezeshkian pledged to forge links with the West, while Jalili pushed for deeper ties with China and Russia.

Public reaction and celebration

Following the announcement, Pezeshkian’s supporters celebrated in Tehran and other cities, underscoring public enthusiasm for his promises of reform and international engagement. Videos circulating on social media showed jubilant scenes of dancing and honking in the streets.

Upcoming challenges

Despite his victory, Pezeshkian faces significant challenges, including addressing economic problems and public dissatisfaction with government policies such as strict enforcement of the hijab and internet censorship. Voter turnout was historically low, reflecting widespread disillusionment among voters. India-Iran Relations Under Pezeshkian

India’s Economic Linkages

India and Iran have traditionally had strong economic relations, particularly focused on energy cooperation. Pezeshkian’s presidency is expected to deepen those ties, focusing on strategic projects such as the Chabahar port, crucial for India’s access to Afghanistan and Central Asia.

Strategic partnerships

The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is another focal point for cooperation, strengthening trade connectivity between India, Iran and Russia. Pezeshkian’s approach to regional security, including his stance on Israel and his alliance with the “Axis of Resistance,” will influence India’s diplomatic strategies in the Middle East. Pezeshkian’s Background and Political Positions

Reformists in the theocratic system

Publicly critical of Raisi’s government’s handling of the death in custody of Ms. Mahsa Amini, an Iranian Kurdish woman who was detained for allegedly violating the Islamic Republic’s strict dress code for women, the outspoken heart surgeon was arrested. In a tweet at the time, now known as X, he called on police to “establish an investigative team” to look into the circumstances surrounding her death. In recent campaign appearances, he has stuck to his principles, criticizing the implementation of laws requiring women to cover their heads and necks in public since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. “We will not tolerate any aggressive or inhumane behavior directed at our sisters and daughters or anyone else.

Political priorities

Pezeshkian’s campaign has emphasized improving relations with the West and restoring the nuclear deal that led to the lifting of sanctions before the U.S. withdrawal under former President Donald Trump. His stances on social issues, such as the treatment of women and freedom of speech, signal a potential shift toward more liberal policies.

Social attitudes and expectations

Despite his reformist credentials, Pezeshkian sees deep-seated Iranian discontent with economic hardship and political repression. He aims to plug those gaps by promoting a more inclusive and progressive agenda that will resonate with younger generations disillusioned by decades of conservative rule.

Given Iran’s complex geopolitical challenges, Pezeshkian’s leadership will determine the country’s fate in the coming years, influencing both domestic dynamics and global relations.