Iran's President Mohammad Khatami has won a second term in office. While his margin of victory was larger than in 1997, Iran's hardliners are probably not too worried. They still control the power ministries in the revolutionary government and command the loyal support of religious conservatives nationwide. Mr. Khatami knows that pushing too far, too fast down the reformist path could destabilize his country. That would play into the hands of his opponents and give them the opportunity they seek to slam the door on reform. Prudence will continue to be the guiding principle for the Khatami government; although it will be difficult, his followers are going to have to trust him and be patient.

Mr. Khatami received 21.7 million of the 28.2 million votes cast in last week's polls, according to final results announced by the Interior Ministry. That margin -- 77 percent -- was even bigger than the 69.1 percent he claimed in his surprise win four years ago and marked the first time that a president won more votes in a second campaign. His nearest rival garnered a mere 15.6 percent of the vote. If there was a blemish on the results, it has to be found in the shrinking turnout: Only 67 percent of voters cast ballots, down from 83 percent four years ago. Frustration with the slow pace of reform is most likely the culprit.

After his victory was secure, Mr. Khatami declared that his first priority was to foster democracy: "The urgent demand . . . is to instill and deepen republicanism, give back the legitimate rights of the people in line with religion, identify priorities in the economic field and solve basic problems of society." As always, he tempered that statement, noting that "principles should be coupled with patience, moderation and prudence."