Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: With Masoud Pezeshkian emerging victorious in Iran’s presidential election over hardliner Saeed Jalili, the landscape of Iran-India relations is poised for significant transformation. Pezeshkian, a veteran lawmaker and cardiac surgeon, brings a vision of pragmatism and reform that contrasts sharply with the hardline approaches of his predecessors. However, the real test lies in navigating Iran’s complex political terrain, dominated by hardliners and the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
“Today, we are holding the second round of the presidential election. More than 700 polling centres are accepting the vote of Iranians. We hope that by tomorrow morning we will have a new president. There will be no changes in Iranian foreign policy and internal policy. Both discourses emphasise strengthening Iranian power internally and externally,” stated Iran’s ambassador to India, Iraj Elahi.
Historically, India and Iran have maintained robust economic ties, which are likely to strengthen under Pezeshkian’s leadership. The Chabahar Port, a pivotal project for India’s trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia, remains a focal point of this bilateral cooperation. India has committed $120 million for the development of the Shahid-Beheshti Port terminal and a $250 million credit line for infrastructure projects in Iran. While the overarching foreign policy may not see drastic changes, the nuances and operational specifics are expected to evolve.
Iran is a crucial supplier of crude oil to India. As Iran looks to boost oil exports amidst ongoing Western sanctions, India might benefit from a more stable and possibly cheaper supply of crude oil.
Pezeshkian’s stance on regional security, particularly his commitment to the “Axis of Resistance” against Israel, will be closely monitored by New Delhi. His policies could affect India’s diplomatic balancing act in the region.
The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multi-modal route connecting India to Russia via Iran, represents another significant area of collaboration. This corridor enhances trade connectivity and bilateral ties, promoting regional stability.
The backdrop of this election includes the tragic death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19, and a voter turnout of only 39.92%, the lowest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Despite predictions of higher participation, the reality reflected a more subdued public engagement, with state media showing modest lines and videos of empty polling sites amid heavy security in Tehran.
Heightened regional tensions also framed this election. Iran’s recent direct attack on Israel and subsequent intensification of militant activities, supported by Tehran, underscore the volatility of the current geopolitical climate.
While Ayatollah Khamenei retains ultimate control over state affairs, it remains to be seen how Pezeshkian’s presidency will influence Iran’s foreign policy amid these complex dynamics.
