Iran’s hardline leader Ebrahim Raisi seeks to end sanctions amid regional tensions
- The anti-US Muslim cleric is the first conservative hardliner to come into power in eight years
- Raisi says his government will support diplomatic initiatives to end sanctions against Iran
The 60-year-old said in his speech after being sworn in that the policies of sanctions and pressure against Iran have not succeeded, and that his government would support diplomatic initiatives to end them.
Regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, he said in his remarks in parliament, which were broadcast over state-run Press TV, with English translation, that nuclear weapons “have no place in our defence doctrine” and are “religiously forbidden” by Islam.
Raisi vowed to proceed in a “tireless manner” to realise the people’s calls for development and justice, stabilise the currency and revive the economy, while “resisting the expansionist policies by the arrogant, aggressive powers”.
He said he would lead an “administration of national unity,” adding, “I am here to serve the population of more than 80 million Iranians.”
Leaders and senior officials from overseas attended his inauguration ceremony in Tehran.