Pezeshkian Inaugurated as Iranian President

Masoud Pezeshkian was sworn in as Iran’s ninth president in Tehran yesterday after winning a snap election on July 5. His inauguration comes at a crucial time in the Middle East as tensions intensify.

His policy is to “pursue constructive and effective interaction with the world based on dignity, wisdom and expediency,” he told a session of parliament.

Courting the West? Perhaps the most eye-catching part about Pezeshkian’s entrance is that he wishes to improve Iran’s relations with the West. He called on “Western countries to understand the realities and establish relationships based on mutual respect and an equal footing.” He also said, “Those who supply weapons that kill children cannot teach Muslims about humanity.”

Yet the inauguration was attended by representatives of the Houthis, Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah and Hamas—all clear enemies of the West.

Prior to being sworn in, Pezeshkian told Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, “We are certain that the resistance of the Palestinian people and fighters will lead to ultimate victory and the liberation of the land of Palestine.”

Shortly afterward, Haniyeh was killed in an Israeli strike.

According to Iran International, Parliament Speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf said in his opening remarks on Tuesday: “The tragic death of late President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions presented a renewed test for the Islamic Republic of Iran in the eyes of global analysts. The wise leadership of the supreme leader turned this into a symbol of stability in Islamic Iran.”

Meanwhile, members of parliament chanted, “Death to America” and “Death to Israel.”

Turning point? On the surface, it looks like Iran could enter a new era of cooperation with the West under Pezeshkian, but there is ample evidence proving this is a facade. Bible prophecy reveals that Iran will soon clash with the West.

To learn more, read “A New Sheriff in Tehran.”