After Rouhani re-election, expect hardliners to 'settle scores'

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani waves to supporters at a polling station during the presidential election in Tehran, Iran, May 19, 2017. President.ir/Handout via REUTERS

DUBAI (Reuters) - Iranians yearning for detente abroad and greater freedoms at home have handed President Hassan Rouhani a second term, but the hardline forces he defeated in elections on Friday will remain defiantly opposed to his plans.

Rouhani built his resounding win in Friday's presidential election by promising more economic opportunities for Iran’s youth, as well as social justice, individual freedoms and political tolerance.