Pezeshkian projected national strength through unity
By Ali Shakourirad
Former Iranian MP
From the outset of the 2024 presidential campaign, Masoud Pezeshkian made it clear that he intended to align his administration with the overarching policies outlined by the Supreme Leader. Over the past year, this commitment has largely held true in practice.
The 14th government of the Islamic Republic has, in its actions, moved in step with the Leader’s directives. Even in areas of initial disagreement—such as over negotiations with the United States regarding the nuclear file—Pezeshkian clearly stated that, while he personally favored dialogue, once the Leader ruled out talks, the administration would fall in line. Following that public statement, the Leader subsequently created room for diplomatic engagement.
Staying true to his campaign slogan “Let’s not fight,” Pezeshkian emphasized national cohesion and made concerted efforts to coordinate closely with the heads of the other branches of power. His cooperation with the Judiciary appears to have been especially constructive. However, similar synergy was not always seen with the Parliament speaker.
One such case was Parliament’s direct intervention in executive affairs—specifically, its approval of a law to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) following joint Israeli-American attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities last month. Although the president had the constitutional option to object to the legislation, he refrained from doing so and moved forward with its implementation.
Pezeshkian has largely delivered on his campaign promises. The call to avoid conflict materialized into political reconciliation, even extending to the inclusion of former rivals in his cabinet. His push for institutional harmony at home went beyond what was expected. On the foreign policy front, he advocated for dialogue and diplomacy, and managed to kick-start nuclear talks—until, regrettably, Iran came under military attack mid-negotiation.
In a recent interview with US host Tucker Carlson, Pezeshkian reiterated his commitment to international engagement, cautioning that war often fills the vacuum left by diplomacy. His insistence on keeping the door open to negotiation was both a positive approach and a fulfillment of earlier promises.
His rational and people-centered approach played a key role—alongside Iran’s military prowess—in shaping the outcome of the recent war. Pezeshkian helped manifest national strength through the unity and solidarity of the people, which proved highly impactful. The alignment between the people and the state in the face of foreign aggression contributed greatly to preventing a prolonged conflict and minimized destruction.
In the realm of foreign policy, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has turned in an acceptable performance.
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