Iran’s President Pezeshkian: Seven Weeks in Office and Uniting the Nation

After seven weeks in office, Iran's President Pezeshkian has focused on uniting the nation while adhering to the supreme leader's directives. His cabinet, which includes the second-ever female minister since the 1979 revolution, aims to represent various political factions. However, the announcement of the cabinet led to controversy, particularly regarding the mandatory hijab policy that has sparked protests in recent years. Pezeshkian's cabinet choices reflect a commitment to a 'national unity' government, with the supreme leader's approval being a significant factor in the selection process. Pezeshkian has vowed to avenge the Palestinian leader Haniyeh, aligning with Iran's longstanding support for the Palestinian cause. Despite this, he has refrained from military escalation, recognizing the potential for a broader regional conflict. The president's approach indicates a desire to balance retaliation with the need for a ceasefire in Gaza, showcasing a strategic calculation in Iran's foreign policy. Additionally, the U.S. and European allies have accused Iran of supplying ballistic missiles to Russia for use in the Ukraine war, a claim Tehran denies. This accusation adds another layer of complexity to Iran's international relations, particularly as Pezeshkian seeks to navigate the geopolitical landscape while maintaining domestic stability. Overall, Pezeshkian's early presidency is characterized by a delicate balancing act between internal unity, external pressures, and the overarching influence of the supreme leader, as he attempts to steer Iran through a tumultuous period both domestically and internationally.