Tehran, 6 July 2024, (GNP): In a closely watched presidential run-off, Masoud Pezeshkian has emerged victorious, securing 53.7 percent of the vote, equivalent to 16.3 million votes, defeating hardliner Saeed Jalili, who garnered 13.5 million votes.
The voter turnout for the run-off stood at 49.8 percent, surpassing the record low turnout of 39.92 percent in the first round held last week.
The result marks a significant win for the moderate, reformist-backed candidate, making Pezeshkian Iran’s ninth president. He is expected to assume office within the next 30 days, with formal endorsement and swearing-in ceremonies currently being planned.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged the higher voter turnout and credited the defeat of a boycott campaign purportedly led by Iran’s “enemies.”
He urged the elected president Pezeshkian to prioritize the improvement of the country and the preservation of the establishment.
Regional leaders, as well as eastern powers and Iran’s allies, have extended their congratulations to Pezeshkian. However, Western leaders have yet to issue official statements regarding the election outcome.
The positive sentiment following Pezeshkian’s victory was reflected in Iran’s financial markets, with the national currency and stock markets showing gains at the start of the working week.