Masoud Pezeshkian, a seasoned politician and trained heart surgeon, was elected as the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 2025. His rise to the highest political office marks a significant chapter in the country’s evolving political landscape. As a reform-leaning figure with decades of experience in healthcare and legislative roles, Pezeshkian has become a subject of national and international attention. This article from Dr.Graphic team explores his background, political career, vision for Iran, and the expectations surrounding his presidency.
Early Life and Education
Masoud Pezeshkian was born on September 29, 1954, in Mahabad, a city located in Iran’s West Azerbaijan Province. He is of Azerbaijani descent and was raised in a modest, working-class family. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong academic aptitude, which eventually led him to pursue a career in medicine.
He earned his medical degree from Tabriz University of Medical Sciences and later specialized in cardiovascular surgery. He served as a university professor and eventually rose to the position of Chancellor of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. His experience in medicine was not only academic but also practical—he performed numerous surgeries and managed healthcare programs in underprivileged areas.
Tragically, Pezeshkian’s personal life was marked by the loss of his wife and one of his children in a car accident in the 1990s, an event that deeply impacted him and further strengthened his sense of public duty.
Political Career Before Presidency
Masoud Pezeshkian entered politics in the early 2000s, beginning his career as Iran’s Minister of Health under President Mohammad Khatami from 2001 to 2005. During his tenure, he focused on expanding public healthcare access and modernizing hospital infrastructure, particularly in rural regions.
Following his term as health minister, Pezeshkian was elected as a Member of Parliament representing the city of Tabriz. He served multiple consecutive terms in the Majlis (Iran’s parliament) and became known for his rational tone, reformist views, and efforts to bridge the gap between conservative and reformist factions. He also served as the First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, showcasing his leadership capabilities in navigating Iran’s complex political structure.
Pezeshkian consistently advocated for transparency, healthcare reform, and social justice. He was one of the few Iranian lawmakers who openly criticized the use of force against protesters during the 2009 and 2022 civil unrests, calling for dialogue and accountability.
Presidential Campaign and Election
In the 2025 presidential election, Masoud Pezeshkian ran as an independent reformist candidate, although he was largely supported by moderate and reformist coalitions. His campaign emphasized national unity, economic reform, healthcare improvement, and a more constructive foreign policy.
Pezeshkian positioned himself as a pragmatic figure, promising to reduce political polarization and focus on practical solutions to Iran’s deep-rooted challenges, including inflation, sanctions, and youth unemployment. His calm demeanor, moderate stance, and refusal to engage in aggressive rhetoric distinguished him from other candidates.
After a competitive election, he won with a significant share of the vote, signaling a shift in public sentiment towards more inclusive and reform-oriented governance.
Key Policies and Vision
As President, Masoud Pezeshkian has outlined a multi-faceted agenda aimed at improving Iran’s internal governance and external relations.
Economic Policy
He advocates for reducing Iran’s dependency on oil revenues and supports the expansion of domestic industries, including information technology, renewable energy, and agriculture. He has also voiced support for economic transparency, anti-corruption measures, and attracting foreign investment—especially from regional partners.
Healthcare Reform
Leveraging his medical background, Pezeshkian has promised to overhaul Iran’s healthcare system. His goals include expanding insurance coverage, improving rural medical facilities, and digitalizing health services. His firsthand experience in the medical field provides him with a unique understanding of the systemic issues Iran faces.
Foreign Policy
In foreign affairs, Pezeshkian promotes a more balanced diplomatic approach. He supports reviving nuclear negotiations and believes that constructive dialogue with both Western powers and regional neighbors is vital for national development and stability.
Social Policy and Civil Liberties
Although he remains within the framework of the Islamic Republic, Pezeshkian has called for more respect toward civil liberties, including freedom of speech and women’s rights. He has shown support for more open internet access and greater educational opportunities for Iran’s youth.
Public Image and Criticism
Masoud Pezeshkian is generally viewed as an honest and principled politician. His humble background and medical service record resonate with many Iranians, particularly those disillusioned by the status quo. His ability to maintain dialogue across political divides has earned him respect even from some conservative quarters.
However, his presidency is not without criticism. Some hardliners view his reformist tendencies with suspicion, fearing they could weaken the ideological foundations of the Islamic Republic. Others question whether his moderate approach will yield tangible results in a system where power is distributed among multiple unelected institutions.
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Conclusion
Masoud Pezeshkian’s presidency presents both opportunities and challenges. His diverse background—as a physician, academic, and experienced lawmaker—gives him a multifaceted perspective on governance. As he navigates a complex political landscape marked by economic difficulties and international pressures, Iranians and the world will closely watch whether his reformist ambitions can translate into real change.
Resources: IRNA _ Wikipedia
