Iran Elects Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian as President Amid Tight Race

Reformist Candidate Triumphs in Second Round Runoff

In a historic election marked by high turnout, reformist Masoud Pezeshkian has emerged victorious in Iran's presidential runoff. Defeating his hardline conservative opponent, Saeed Jalili, Pezeshkian secured 55% of the vote in the second round.

Early Elections Witness Close Contest

Early presidential elections were held in Iran on June 28 and July 5, 2024, following the announcement earlier this year by President Hassan Rouhani that he would not seek a third term. Reformist candidate Pezeshkian won the first round with 42.5% of the vote, followed by Jalili with 38.6%.

Given that no candidate received more than 50% of the vote in the first round, a runoff was necessary between the top two candidates. The second round, held on July 5, saw a close race with Pezeshkian ultimately prevailing.

Pezeshkian's Victory Signals Shift in Iranian Politics

Pezeshkian's victory is a significant development in Iranian politics, as it marks the first time a reformist candidate has been elected president since 1997. His victory is seen as a sign of public desire for greater political moderation and openness.