Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s official backing for election winner opens way for formation of new government
Repudiation of candidates came after their mishandling of the economy and power struggles among them
Masoud Pezeshkian’s victory cannot mask fact that the republic faces a legitimacy crisis
The 69-year-old promises change to Tehran’s domestic and foreign policies and to end nuclear stand-off
Successor to Raisi seeks to ease social restrictions and re-engage with west to secure sanctions relief
Presidential race between reformist and hardliner to be decided by silent majority who boycotted first round