Saudi leadership congratulates Pezeshkian on election as Iran’s President

Saudi Arabia’s king and crown prince have congratulated Masoud Pezeshkian on his election as Iran’s president.

“I affirm my keenness on developing and deepening the relations between our countries and people and serve our mutual interests,” SPA quoted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as saying.

This gesture follows a landmark China-brokered agreement in March 2023, aimed at re-establishing diplomatic ties after years of regional rivalry.

Pezeshkian, a reformist politician and former health minister, secured his victory in the presidential runoff held on July 5, 2024, following an inconclusive initial round on June 28.

Pezeshkian’s campaign focused on alleviating economic hardships, reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, and promoting greater social freedoms.

His election marks a potential shift in Iran’s policies, although Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei continues to hold ultimate authority over strategic decisions.

Credit: Reuters