The reformist-backed cleric（牧师） won just over 50% of the vote and so avoided the need for a run-off.

 

Thousands of Iranians took to the streets of Tehran when the result was announced, shouting pro-reform slogans.

 

The US expressed concern at a "lack of transparency" and "censorship" but praised the Iranian people and said it was ready to work with Tehran.

 

Some 72.2% of the 50 million eligible¹ voters cast ballots² on Friday to choose the successor to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. 

 

Mr Rouhani issued a statement saying that "a new opportunity has been created for those who truly respect democracy, interaction and free dialogue".

 

The 64-year-old cleric said: "I thank God that once again rationality and moderation has shone on Iran... This victory is a victory for wisdom, moderation and maturity³... over extremism."

 

But he also said: "The nations who tout⁴ democracy and open dialogue should speak to the Iranian people with respect and recognise the rights of the Islamic republic."

 

Supreme⁵ Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei congratulated Mr Rouhani on his victory, saying: "I urge everyone to help the president-elect and his colleagues in the government, as he is the president of the whole nation."

 

Ayatollah Khamenei will ratify⁶ the vote on 3 August and the new president will then take the oath in parliament.

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