Iran inaugurates Pezeshkian as ninth president, pledges for change and unity
New Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addresses the floor after his swearing in ceremony at the parliament in Tehran, Iran on July 30, 2024. (AFP Photo)
Masoud Pezeshkian was officially sworn in as Iran’s ninth president on Tuesday, following his victory in the second round of the presidential election. The inauguration ceremony, held in Iran’s parliament, saw attendance from representatives of 86 countries, alongside high-ranking Iranian military and civilian officials.
Representing Türkiye at the event was Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, underlining the international significance of the occasion.
Pezeshkian took his oath before the Quran, in the presence of Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, who both delivered speeches before Pezeshkian’s formal swearing-in.
Focus on unity and internal reforms
In his inaugural address, Pezeshkian emphasized the need to restore respect for Iran’s youth, women, and girls, stating, “We must reestablish respect, especially for the young generation, women, and girls who have been neglected and troubled. This path requires the support and assistance of all elements of the government, particularly the legislative and judicial branches.”
He pledged to focus on the people’s issues, respond to demands for transformation, and prioritize national interests, noting, “Although expert reports indicate a complex current situation, with God’s help and confidence in Iran’s human capacity, we can overcome any challenges.”
Adhering to Iran’s constitution and policies approved by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Pezeshkian called for national unity, stressing that the recent election reflected the people’s desire for inclusivity and cooperation. “National unity means setting aside differences based on selfishness and working together to realize this vision. Our people asked for nothing else in this election. We must ensure participation opportunities for those who have been sidelined until now.”
Foreign policy and regional relations
On foreign policy, Pezeshkian outlined his administration’s goals, which include securing national interests, ensuring public safety, fostering economic development, and improving the quality of life. He highlighted the importance of constructive and balanced interactions with the world and protecting human rights.
Pezeshkian reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to its neighbors, stating, “The priority of my government’s foreign policy is to develop and strengthen relations with neighboring countries. Neighboring countries should not waste their valuable resources on tensions and corrosive competition.”
He also expressed readiness for negotiations to lift sanctions on Iran, normalize economic relations with the world, and reduce tensions, highlighting the need for diplomacy.
Touching on the conflict involving Israel, Pezeshkian condemned attacks on Palestinians and criticized the U.S. for its support of Israel. “Those who provide weapons to kill children in Gaza cannot teach others about humanity and tolerance. No one in the world accepts support for a regime that wages war against women and children, raining bombs on them.”
During his remarks about Israel, Iranian officials in the parliament chanted slogans like “death to Israel,” showing the deep-seated animosity towards the Israeli state.
Pezeshkian’s presidency comes at a time of significant regional tension, particularly concerning Iran’s involvement in Gaza and its strained relations with Western powers over its nuclear program. His administration faces the dual challenge of addressing internal discontent and navigating complex international dynamics.
