In a significant political development, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei officially endorsed Masoud Pezeshkian as the country’s new president on July 28, 2024. Pezeshkian, who emerged victorious in the recent election, ran on a platform advocating for a pragmatic foreign policy and easing domestic repression.
Endorsement Ceremony:
The endorsement ceremony, broadcast live on state television, saw Khamenei presenting the presidential decree to Pezeshkian. In his speech, Khamenei reiterated Iran’s longstanding anti-Israel stance, describing Israel as “a criminal gang, a bank of killers, and a terrorist band,” while praising Hamas for its resistance against Israel in Gaza.
Middle East Tensions:
Pezeshkian assumes office during escalating Middle East tensions, particularly over the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Following a rocket attack on an Israeli-occupied football ground in the Golan Heights, which resulted in 12 deaths, Iran warned Israel against any new adventures in Lebanon. Although Israeli authorities blamed Hezbollah for the attack, the group denied responsibility.
Political Dynamics:
Despite Pezeshkian’s moderate stance and his potential to thaw relations with the West, the ultimate authority on Iran’s regional and foreign policies remains with the Supreme Leader and the powerful Revolutionary Guards, who report directly to Khamenei. As such, significant shifts in Iran’s support for regional militia groups are not anticipated.
Economic Focus:
Pezeshkian’s administration is expected to prioritize economic issues, particularly efforts to alleviate the country’s economic hardships exacerbated by U.S. sanctions reimposed after Washington withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal. Khamenei emphasized the importance of addressing economic issues as a priority in his speech.
Looking Ahead:
Pezeshkian is scheduled to be sworn in on Tuesday. His administration’s approach to key issues, including foreign policy and cabinet selections for positions such as foreign, oil, and intelligence ministers, will be closely watched. With the Supreme Leader maintaining control over major state matters, the extent to which Pezeshkian can implement his agenda remains to be seen.
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Written By Joe Brens