Iran: Masoud Pezeshkian wins presidential election

Tehran [Iran]: Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian has secured a win in the presidential elections in Iran, CNN reported, citing Press TV.

Out of 30.5 million votes counted in Friday's runoff, Pezeshkian received over 16.3 million votes while his ultraconservative rival Saeed Jalili got more than 13.5 million votes, CNN said.

Voter Turnout
According to election headquarters under the auspices of the interior ministry, the voter turnout was 49.8 per cent in Iran's presidential elections, the report said.

Runoff Victory
Pezeshkian was elected in a second round of voting after he received the highest number of votes in the first round, ahead of Jalili.

Background of Snap Elections
Snap elections were held in Iran after President Ebrahim Raisi died in a chopper crash along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other officials in Iran's remote northwest in May.

Reformist Candidate's Stance
Pezeshkian was the only reformist candidate who was contesting for the top elected seat in Iran after dozens of other candidates were stopped from running. He has backed holding talks with Iran's foes, especially over its nuclear program and considers that as a means to address domestic issues in Iran.

Presidential Debate
At a recent presidential debate, Pezeshkian said, "The primary issue is the perspective: Do we want to solve our problems with the world or not? I believe we must get out of the deadlock to solve the country's problems."

Presidential Powers
The President of Iran enjoys some powers. However, the ultimate authority lies with Iran's supreme leader, who has the final say on the matters of state.

According to experts, a more moderate face as Iran's President could facilitate talks between Iran and Western nations. Pezeshkian might also bring some social changes, which he had talked about during his election campaign. However, experts have said that such moves are far from guaranteed.

(With ANI inputs)