Masoud Pezeshkian has been sworn in as Iran’s ninth president following the death of Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash in May. The inauguration took place on Tuesday in the parliament, just two days after Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, officially approved Pezeshkian and granted him presidential powers.
During the ceremony, which was broadcast live on state television, Pezeshkian stated, “As president, I swear before the holy Quran and the Iranian people to the Almighty God to be the guardian of the official religion and the Islamic Republic, as well as the country’s constitution.” Pezeshkian, who is expected to present his government within the next two weeks, received over 16 million votes in Iran’s election, accounting for approximately 54 percent of the roughly 30 million votes cast. His victory has raised hopes for an improvement in Iran’s relations with the West.
The new president assumes office at a time of significantly increased tensions in the Middle East due to Israel’s war in Gaza and frequent exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which is supported by Iran. Iran has accused the United States of supporting what it calls Israeli crimes in Gaza.
During his inauguration, Pezeshkian remarked that “those who provide weapons that kill children cannot teach Muslims about humanity,” which was met with chants of “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.” The ceremony was also marked by the presence of leaders from Iran’s Palestinian allies Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, as well as senior representatives from Yemen’s Houthi movement and Lebanon’s Hezbollah.
On Monday, Pezeshkian warned Israel against attacks in Lebanon, stating that such actions would have “serious consequences.” However, it is important to note that ultimate authority in Iran resides with Khamenei, who holds power over all state matters, including foreign and nuclear policy. Khamenei must also approve Pezeshkian’s appointments to key ministries, including foreign affairs, oil, and intelligence.
In addition to the current conflicts, Pezeshkian will need to address the significant challenges stemming from economic sanctions reinstated by the United States after Washington withdrew from Iran’s 2015 nuclear agreement with major powers. Indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington aimed at reviving the nuclear accord have stalled since 2022, with both sides accusing each other of unreasonable demands.
“My government will never succumb to bullying and pressure… Pressure and sanctions do not work… and the Iranian people must be treated with respect,” Pezeshkian stated. “I will not stop trying to lift the oppressive sanctions,” he added. “I am optimistic about the future.”