Masoud Pezeshkian is an Iranian cardiac surgeon and reformist politician who became the ninth President of Iran in July 2024. His election marked a significant shift in Iranian politics, as he succeeded the late President Ebrahim Raisi following a tragic helicopter crash. Pezeshkian’s presidency is characterized by his advocacy for moderate reforms, improved international relations, and addressing domestic challenges.
🧬 Early Life and Medical Career
Born on 29 September 1954 in Mahabad, a city in Iran’s West Azerbaijan province, Pezeshkian hails from a diverse ethnic background, with an Azerbaijani father and a Kurdish mother . He pursued medical studies at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, specializing in cardiac surgery. During the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), he contributed by organizing medical teams to support the front lines. In 1994, he became the president of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, reflecting his commitment to medical education and healthcare .
🏛️ Political Career
Pezeshkian’s political journey began in the late 1990s when he served as Deputy Minister of Health, later becoming the Minister of Health and Medical Education from 2001 to 2005 under President Mohammad Khatami . He was elected to the Iranian Parliament (Majles) in 2008, representing Tabriz, Osku, and Azarshahr, and served multiple terms until 2024. Known for his reformist stance, he advocated for minority rights, criticized the government’s handling of protests, and supported the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement following the death of Jina Mahsa Amini .
🗳️ 2024 Presidential Election
Following the untimely death of President Ebrahim Raisi, early elections were held in July 2024. Pezeshkian emerged as a leading candidate, securing endorsements from centrist and reformist figures. He won the presidency with 54.76% of the vote, defeating hardliner Saeed Jalili. His victory was seen as a mandate for moderate reforms and a desire for change among the Iranian populace .
🌐 Domestic and Foreign Policy
As president, Pezeshkian has expressed a commitment to improving Iran’s international relations, particularly advocating for a return to the 2015 nuclear agreement and easing tensions with Western countries . Domestically, he has called for modest social and political reforms, including a more lenient approach to the enforcement of the hijab and addressing the concerns of ethnic minorities. However, his administration faces challenges from hardline factions resistant to change .
👨👧 Personal Life
Pezeshkian’s personal life has been marked by tragedy; he lost his wife and one of his children in a car accident in 1993. He raised his remaining three children as a single father and has not remarried. His daughter, Zahra Pezeshkian, holds a master’s degree in chemistry and has been involved in his political campaigns .
🧭 Legacy and Outlook
President Masoud Pezeshkian’s tenure represents a pivotal moment in Iran’s political landscape. His background as a medical professional and his reformist agenda offer a departure from previous administrations. While he faces significant obstacles from entrenched hardline elements, his presidency embodies a hope for gradual change and increased engagement with the global community.
