With Masoud Pezeshkian’s victory in Iran’s Presidential election, defeating hardliner Saeed Jalili, a potential shift towards pragmatic and reformist policies is anticipated. Pezeshkian, a seasoned lawmaker and cardiac surgeon, has long advocated for both domestic and international reforms. His win signals a call for change following widespread dissatisfaction with the hardline policies of his predecessors.
However, the dynamics of Iranian politics, dominated by hardliners and under the ultimate authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will challenge Pezeshkian’s ability to implement his vision.
“Today, we are holding the second round of the Presidential election. More than 700 polling centres are accepting the vote of Iranians. We hope that by tomorrow morning we will have a new President. There will be no changes in Iranian foreign policy and internal policy. Both discourses emphasise strengthening Iranian power internally and externally,” said Iran’s ambassador to Bharat, Iraj Elahi.
Bharat and Iran have historically enjoyed robust economic ties, and under Pezeshkian’s Presidency, these relations are likely to deepen. A key focus will be the strategic Chabahar Port, where Bharat has made significant investments. The port is crucial for trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Bharat has committed $120 million to develop the Shahid-Beheshti Port terminal and offered a $250 million credit line for infrastructure projects in Iran. Experts believe that while Iran’s overarching foreign policy may remain stable, the operational details could vary under Pezeshkian.
Iran is also a vital source of crude oil for Bharat. With Iran seeking to increase its oil exports amid ongoing Western sanctions, India could benefit from a reliable and potentially cheaper oil supply.
Pezeshkian’s approach to regional security will be closely monitored in New Delhi. His stance on maintaining the “Axis of Resistance” against Israel and strategic alliances with forces opposed to what he terms “the Zionist regime” could influence Bharat’s delicate diplomatic balancing act in the region.
Another platform for Bharat-Iran cooperation is the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multi-modal transportation route connecting Bharat to Russia via Iran. This corridor enhances trade connectivity and bilateral ties, contributing to regional stability.
The Presidential election took place against the backdrop of former President Ebrahim Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash on May 19. The election saw the lowest voter turnout since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with only 39.92 per cent of eligible voters participating.
Despite predictions of higher turnout by the Iranian Government and Ayatollah Khamenei, State television showed modest lines at polling centres, while online videos depicted empty polls and light traffic at some sites in Tehran, amid heavy security presence.
The elections were held amid heightened regional tensions. In April, Iran launched its first direct attack on Israel amid ongoing aggression in Gaza, followed by intensified attacks by militant groups such as Hezbollah and the Houthis, both supported by Tehran.
While Ayatollah Khamenei retains the final say in State affairs, it remains to be seen how Pezeshkian’s Presidency will influence Iran’s foreign policy in response to these recent events.
