Javad Zarif Supports Reformist Candidate in Iran's Presidential Election
On June 25, 2024, Javad Zarif, Iran's former foreign minister and architect of the 2015 nuclear deal, publicly endorsed Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist presidential candidate, during a campaign rally in Tehran. Zarif, who served as foreign minister from 2013 to 2021, re-entered the political scene to support Pezeshkian, a well-known heart surgeon and long-time parliament member, in the upcoming election.
Zarif's participation has brought renewed focus to the nuclear deal and broader diplomatic relations, overshadowing Pezeshkian, who is less combative and emphasizes uncorrupted governance. Zarif’s return to politics has been marked by public heckling and debates about Iran's foreign policy stance, stirring divisions within the electorate. Both Zarif and Pezeshkian advocate for measured compromises with Western nations to ease sanctions and stabilize Iran's economy.
The election follows the death of the previous president, Ebrahim Raisi, in a helicopter crash, creating a tumultuous political climate. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has urged candidates to tone down their rhetoric and has implored for maximum voter turnout to enhance the regime’s legitimacy. This call contrasts with his subtle criticisms of Pezeshkian’s pro-Western stance.
In the final days before the election, Pezeshkian’s campaign has seen growing, though predominantly male, support at rallies. His campaign slogan, “For Iran,” and the adoption of green scarves—reminiscent of the 2009 Green Movement—signal his push for change from within the current theocratic system. However, apathy remains high among the electorate, particularly amidst a struggling economy and recent anti-government protests.