IRAN: Massoud Pezeshkian, a former heart surgeon known for his critical stance has won Iran’s presidential election. Pezeshkian garnered 53.3% of the more than 30 million votes counted, defeating hardline conservative Saeed Jalili, who received 44.3%.

The run-off election, held after no candidate secured a majority in the first round on June 28, saw a voter turnout of 50%. This was a notable increase from the historically low 40% turnout in the first round, yet it still reflected widespread discontent among the electorate. The election followed the tragic death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May, which also claimed the lives of seven others.

Even before the official results were announced, Pezeshkian’s supporters flooded the streets of Tehran and other cities, celebrating with dancing, flag-waving, and car horn honking. Social media buzzed with videos of jubilant crowds, many of whom were young people hopeful for change.

Pezeshkian has been vocal about ending Iran’s isolation and has called for “constructive negotiations” with Western powers to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. This approach contrasts sharply with Jalili’s hardline anti-Western stance and opposition to renewing the deal, which he believes compromises Iran’s sovereignty.

The increased voter turnout in the run-off was partly driven by fears of Jalili’s potential presidency, which many believed would lead to further international confrontation and sanctions. Despite the boost in participation, millions still boycotted the election, frustrated by the limited choice of candidates.

Both Pezeshkian and Jalili were among the few candidates allowed to run after the Guardian Council’s stringent vetting process disqualified 74 others, including several women.