Iran: Masoud Pezeshkian sworn in as new President, critizes U.S. support for Israel - Video
Masoud Pezeshkian was officially sworn in as Iran’s ninth president on July 30, succeeding Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash in May.
The inauguration ceremony took place in Tehran and attendees included senior officials from countries such as Armenia, Tajikistan, Egypt, Sudan, Iraq, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Cuba, Brazil, and European Union envoy Enrique Mora.
Pezeshkian, a reformist and former heart surgeon, won the runoff election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili on July 5. He received over 16 million votes, about 54 per cent of the total ballots cast.
The election occurred amid regional tensions related to the Gaza conflict, ongoing disputes over Iran’s nuclear program, and domestic dissatisfaction due to economic sanctions.
At the inauguration, Pezeshkian took an oath to uphold the Islamic Republic's constitution and values. “I as the president, in front of the Holy Koran and the people of Iran, swear to almighty God to be the guardian of the official religion and the Islamic Republic system and the constitution of the country,” Pezeshkian was quoted by AFP.
Pezeshkian condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza and criticized the U.S. for its support of Israel. "Those who supply the weapons that kill children in Gaza cannot teach humanity and tolerance to others," he said.
Some attendees chanted “Death to Israel, Death to America” during his speech. He also warned of severe consequences if Israel were to attack Lebanon.
