Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, endorses Pezeshkian as the new President. This endorsement is a significant milestone in Iranian politics, as the newly elected leader is considered a moderate figure compared to his predecessors.
In a formal ceremony in Tehran, Ayatollah Khamenei expressed his support for Masoud Pezeshkian and praised the president's commitment to addressing the country's pressing issues. During his endorsement speech statement, he says, “Dr. Pezeshkian has demonstrated his dedication to the Islamic Republic through his years of service and his efforts to improve the welfare of our people.”
He urges Pezeshkian to prioritize neighboring countries, like the African and Asian nations, that have supported Iran through the turbulence.
Pezeshkian, who previously served as the First Deputy Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and the Minister of Health, advocates for economic reforms and the importance of diplomatic engagement to mitigate the impact of international sanctions on Iran.
After receiving the significant endorsement from the Supreme Leader, Pezeshkian reiterated his commitment to removing economic sanctions that are severely crippling Iran’s economy.
The President's Goals for the Country
Credit: AP News
The Iranian President discussed his primary goals of reviving the economy and improving healthcare. In his speech, Pezeshkian says, “I am honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by the Supreme Leader and the people of Iran.” He adds, “And I swear to Almighty God, by the holy Quran and the people of Iran, to guard this official religion and the Islamic Republic system of the country. Our nation faces numerous challenges, but together, we can overcome them by being unified and prioritizing our people's well-being.”
Pezeshkian’s inauguration as Iran’s president didn't come easy. He secured over 16 million votes during the run-off election and over 54% of the 30 million votes cast. His win raises hope that Iran could mend its relationship with the West.
Pezeshkian also hopes to revive the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which the United States exited in 2018. In his address, Pezeshkian expressed that he is willing to engage with world powers to restore the JCPOA and lift the sanctions that have hampered Iran’s economic growth. He says, “We want to engage with the international community based on mutual respect and national interests.”
In another significant move, the president has shunned Israel for its continued attack on Gaza. The country, through the ‘Axis of Resistance’, has also accused the United States of “supporting Israel’s brutality in Gaza.”
In a concluding speech, Pezeshkian says that his government will never bow down to bullying, regardless of the pressure and sanctions the country faces. “I will always try to remove these sanctions, and my people will be addressed with respect.”