A reformer wanting a nuclear deal with America wins Iran’s election
Voters turned their backs on hardliners for Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate
THE CRY for change could hardly be clearer. In the presidential election on July 5th, 16.4m Iranians voted for Masoud Pezeshkian, a reform-minded heart surgeon who wants talks with the West and women to have the right to dress as they choose. Just 13.5m Iranians voted for Saeed Jalili, a hardliner who advocates confrontation with Western “enemies”, enforcement of Iran’s conservative codes and preserving the system as it is. Even regime loyalists doubted his message. Mr Jalili attracted 8m fewer votes than did two hardliners who stood for president in 2021.
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