Pezeshkian, a 69-year-old cardiac surgeon, has pledged to promote a pragmatic foreign policy, ease tensions over now-stalled negotiations with major powers to revive a 2015 nuclear pact, and improve prospects for social liberalization and political pluralism.
He secured over 16 million votes in the second round of elections, surpassing his conservative rival, Saeed Jalili, who received more than 13 million votes. The voter turnout was 49.8%.
The new Iranian president’s task is daunting, as he inherits a nation deeply affected by the 2022 protests and societal polarization following the
tragic death of President Raisi.
Despite being labeled a reformist, Pezeshkian seeks to improve the current system rather than transform it into something entirely new, according to Kłagisz.
The question of how to reform the system has long preoccupied Iran's political elites, the expert noted. While Pezeshkian's election may impact internal matters, the experiences of previous presidents show that intentions often clash with practical limitations.
“Pezeshkian must find solutions to at least some of the problems plaguing Iranians—most importantly, those related to economic issues as well as social and cultural matters,” he said.
When it comes to Iran's future relations with the U.S., EU, or China, Kłagisz said: “I believe Pezeshkian will strive to rebuild the best possible relations with the European Union and the United States.”
“However, improving these relations does not mean abandoning Iran's own aspirations, and the Iranians will not give up their nuclear development program simply because it is demanded of them.”
According to him, the primary foreign policy goal of the new president will be to lift the economic sanctions imposed on Iran by Western countries, but not at the cost of completely surrendering Iran's political identity in the international arena.
He stated that significant changes in policies towards China or India are not expected. However, cooperation with Russia might need adjustment if Iran aims to rebuild relations with the EU. The quality of foreign policy largely depends on the balance of power within the domestic political scene.
Are changes possible?
According to Reuters, many Iranians are skeptical about his ability to fulfill his campaign promises, as the ultimate authority in the Islamic Republic lies with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, not the president.
An Iranian source told Reuters that Pezeshkian has a close relationship with Supreme Leader Khamenei and may foster moderation between factions, but fundamental changes are unlikely.
The Islamic Republic has seen two reform attempts: President Khatami’s political reforms (1997–2005) faced opposition from Khamenei and the Revolutionary Guards, while Hassan Rouhani (2013–2021) focused on the 2015 nuclear deal, neglecting domestic reforms.
After the voting result is confirmed by a hardline election watchdog body and approved by Khamenei, Pezeshkian will take the oath of office before parliament in Tehran in the coming days.
