Mahmoud Ahmadinejad (born Mahmoud Sabbaghian) is an Iranian politician, engineer, and former university professor who served as the sixth President of Iran from 2005 to 2013. Ideologically aligned with principlism and nationalism, he rose to prominence as the main political leader of the Alliance of Builders of Islamic Iran, a conservative coalition. Prior to his presidency, he served as mayor of Tehran from 2003 to 2005, where he reversed many reforms implemented by his predecessor. His administration was marked by controversial rhetoric, including Holocaust denial, strong anti-Western sentiments, and notorious anti-Israel statements, which heightened regional tensions and drew international condemnation. He was a vocal supporter and key figure in advancing Iran's nuclear program, often defying Western sanctions and negotiations. His presidency faced domestic challenges, including economic difficulties exacerbated by international sanctions and allegations of election fraud in 2009, leading to widespread protests. Post-presidency, he has remained influential in conservative circles and currently serves as a member of the Expediency Discernment Council. His tenure is often criticized for authoritarian tendencies, suppression of dissent, and failed power struggles with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Born into a modest family, his political activism began during the 1979 Islamic Revolution, and he later pursued advanced studies in engineering while engaging in revolutionary activities. His leadership style emphasized populism and Islamic values, but it also contributed to Iran's isolation on the global stage.