The election of Masoud Pezeshkian as president of Iran could potentially bring about significant changes in the country’s foreign policy stance, according to current and former officials as well as experts. Mr. Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate and cardiologist by profession, has promised to empower elite diplomats to lead Iran’s foreign agenda, signaling a possible shift towards a more cooperative approach with the West.
Dennis B. Ross, a former Mideast negotiator who worked under President Barack Obama, believes that Mr. Pezeshkian represents a more pragmatic and less confrontational posture in dealing with external affairs. However, the ultimate authority lies with Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who could potentially curb Mr. Pezeshkian’s international initiatives.
Most of the president’s powers are limited to domestic matters, with Mr. Khamenei holding sway over major policy decisions, including foreign affairs. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, another influential entity in the country, oversees all military affairs and closely aligns with the supreme leader, shaping Iran’s aggressive stance in the region.
In recent years, Iran’s foreign policies have become increasingly hard-line, with a focus on alliances with authoritarian states and projecting power on a global scale. This trend might persist under Mr. Pezeshkian’s administration, potentially solidifying Iran’s position as a formidable player in the Middle East.
Engaging With the World
Mr. Pezeshkian’s selection of diplomats could shape global perceptions of Iran and its policies. Contrasting with his rival, Saeed Jalili, Mr. Pezeshkian advocates for international engagement and improved relations with the West to ease sanctions. His approach stands in stark contrast to the isolationist stance of hard-liners like Mr. Jalili, indicating a potential diplomatic breakthrough under his administration.
Easing Relations With the West
Mr. Pezeshkian aims to foster communication with most global governments, except Israel, while cautioning against overreliance on Russia and China. By emphasizing respectful and dignified interactions, he seeks to improve Iran’s global standing and potentially pave the way for diplomatic breakthroughs.
Mr. Pezeshkian’s emphasis on improving foreign relations could signal a shift in Iran’s diplomatic approach, driven by his chief foreign policy adviser Mohammad Javad Zarif. Despite minimal international experience, Mr. Pezeshkian’s campaign aligns with a more pragmatic stance, distinct from the ideological rigidity often seen under Mr. Khamenei.
The Trump Factor
The revival of the 2015 nuclear deal will test Iran’s willingness to engage with the West, especially in light of potential policy shifts under a new administration. The delicate balance between pragmatism and ideology will influence Iran’s foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding relationships with the United States.
Avoiding Conflict With the U.S.
Tensions between Iran and the United States have been a longstanding challenge, exacerbated by geopolitical conflicts and regional instability. Back-channel communications and diplomatic exchanges have demonstrated a degree of cooperation, but the looming specter of potential conflict underscores the need for careful navigation of bilateral relations.
