In reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran has found a new president over a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash which necessitated snap elections. A cardiac surgeon and single dad who is seen as an advocate of greater freedoms for women in post-revolution Iran, Pezeshkian will now confront the challenge of navigating through his reformist policy agenda in a deeply conservative polity.

Iran: Challenges ahead for Iran's President-elect, Pezeshkian vows to revive 2015 nuclear deal

<p>Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported.</p>

<p>Officials have so far counted more than 30 million votes, out of which Pezeshkian garnered over 17 million and Jalili more than 13 million, according to results released by the interior ministry.</p>

<p>Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure.</p>

<p>In his first remarks after being declared winner of the runoff vote,&nbsp;president-elect Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday (July 6) he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone".</p>

<p>"We will extend the hand of friendship to everyone; we are all people of this country; we should use everyone for the progress of the country," Pezeshkian said on state television.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian will replace late ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi who died in a May helicopter crash.</p>

<p>"These people participated with love, they came to help, and I thank all these dear people," Pezeshkian added.</p>

<p>In the lead-up to the elections, Iran's main reformist coalition threw its weight behind Pezeshkian. Former presidents Mohammad Khatami and the moderate Hassan Rouhani had declared support for his bid.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian takes over the presidency amid heightened regional tensions over the Gaza war, a dispute with the West over Iran's nuclear programme and domestic discontent over the state of Iran's sanctions-hit economy.</p>

<p><em>More information will be added soon.</em></p>


Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported.

Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported. Officials have so far counted more than 30 million votes, out of which Pezeshkian garnered over 17 million and Jalili more than 13 million, according to results released by the interior ministry. Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure. In his first remarks after being declared winner of the runoff vote, president-elect Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday (July 6) he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone". "We will extend the hand of friendship to everyone; we are all people of this country; we should use everyone for the progress of the country," Pezeshkian said on state television. Pezeshkian will replace late ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi who died in a May helicopter crash. "These people participated with love, they came to help, and I thank all these dear people," Pezeshkian added. In the lead-up to the elections, Iran's main reformist coalition threw its weight behind Pezeshkian. Former presidents Mohammad Khatami and the moderate Hassan Rouhani had declared support for his bid. Pezeshkian takes over the presidency amid heightened regional tensions over the Gaza war, a dispute with the West over Iran's nuclear programme and domestic discontent over the state of Iran's sanctions-hit economy. More information will be added soon.

Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections

<p>Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic. The elections were made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-one-reformist-four-khameini-loyalists-to-battle-it-out-in-june-28-polls-735562">Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls</a></strong></p>

<p>Pezeshkian, 69, secured approximately 53.6 per cent of the vote in a runoff election against the ultraconservative Saeed Jalili.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delivers-reformist-verdict-as-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-wins-hearts-in-presidential-elections-738393">Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections</a></strong></p>

<p>In the first round of Iran's snap elections on June 28, Pezeshkian led the polls against three other conservative candidates, surprising critics and admirers alike.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-tehran-delivers-reformist-election-whisper-before-runoff-and-more-736552">The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more</a></strong></p>

<p>Pezeshkian's victory has reignited the hopes of Iran's reformists after years of conservative and ultraconservative dominance.</p>

<p>"The difficult path ahead will not be smooth without your companionship, empathy, and trust. I extend my hand to you," Pezeshkian said in a post on X, after previously stating he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone" if he won.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-vote-in-snap-polls-with-hopes-for-better-economy-regional-stability-735900">Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability</a></strong></p>

<p>The outspoken heart surgeon publicly criticised Ebrahim Raisi's government over its handling of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women.</p>

<p>In a post on X, he called on authorities to "set up an investigation team" to examine the circumstances of her death.</p>

<p>During his recent campaign, he maintained his stance, criticising the enforcement of mandatory hijab laws which require women to cover their head and neck in public since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran election 2024: Reformist Pezeshkian wins presidential runoff election, defeating Jalili</strong></p>

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<p>"We oppose any violent and inhumane behavior towards anyone, notably our sisters and daughters, and we will not allow these actions to happen," he said.</p>

<p>He also promised to ease internet restrictions and involve ethnic minorities in his government.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian was born in 1954 to an Iranian father of Turkic origin and a Kurdish mother in Mahabad, a city in the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan.</p>

<p>He has represented Tabriz in Iran's parliament since 2008, served as health minister in Khatami's government, and oversaw medical teams during the Iran-Iraq war from 1980 to 1988.</p>

<p>In 1993, Pezeshkian lost his wife and one of his children in a car accident. He never remarried and raised his remaining three children—two sons and a daughter—on his own.</p>

<p>Campaigning for Pezeshkian was Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's former foreign minister who helped secure the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which collapsed three years later during Donald Trump's presidency.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian has called for reviving the accord—which aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear activity in exchange for sanctions relief—to bring Iran "out of isolation."</p>

<p>"If we manage to lift the sanctions, people will have an easier life while the continuation of sanctions means making people's lives miserable," he said during a televised interview.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian will be responsible for implementing state policy outlined by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority in the country.</p>


Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic.

Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic. The elections were made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago. Also read | Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls Pezeshkian, 69, secured approximately 53.6 per cent of the vote in a runoff election against the ultraconservative Saeed Jalili. Also read | Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections In the first round of Iran's snap elections on June 28, Pezeshkian led the polls against three other conservative candidates, surprising critics and admirers alike. Also read | The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more Pezeshkian's victory has reignited the hopes of Iran's reformists after years of conservative and ultraconservative dominance. "The difficult path ahead will not be smooth without your companionship, empathy, and trust. I extend my hand to you," Pezeshkian said in a post on X, after previously stating he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone" if he won. Also read | Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability The outspoken heart surgeon publicly criticised Ebrahim Raisi's government over its handling of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women. In a post on X, he called on authorities to "set up an investigation team" to examine the circumstances of her death. During his recent campaign, he maintained his stance, criticising the enforcement of mandatory hijab laws which require women to cover their head and neck in public since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Also watch | Iran election 2024: Reformist Pezeshkian wins presidential runoff election, defeating Jalili × "We oppose any violent and inhumane behavior towards anyone, notably our sisters and daughters, and we will not allow these actions to happen," he said. He also promised to ease internet restrictions and involve ethnic minorities in his government. Pezeshkian was born in 1954 to an Iranian father of Turkic origin and a Kurdish mother in Mahabad, a city in the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan. He has represented Tabriz in Iran's parliament since 2008, served as health minister in Khatami's government, and oversaw medical teams during the Iran-Iraq war from 1980 to 1988. In 1993, Pezeshkian lost his wife and one of his children in a car accident. He never remarried and raised his remaining three children—two sons and a daughter—on his own. Campaigning for Pezeshkian was Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's former foreign minister who helped secure the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which collapsed three years later during Donald Trump's presidency. Pezeshkian has called for reviving the accord—which aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear activity in exchange for sanctions relief—to bring Iran "out of isolation." "If we manage to lift the sanctions, people will have an easier life while the continuation of sanctions means making people's lives miserable," he said during a televised interview. Pezeshkian will be responsible for implementing state policy outlined by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority in the country.

Masoud Pezeshkian: Iran's heart-specialist president is single dad who stood for Mahsa Amini

The Iran Presidential run-off has been a contest between a Reformist and a Hardliner. The final result will be announced on Saturday. Molly Gambhir telling you more.

Gravitas: Iran Presidential run-off: The contest between a Reformist and a Hardliner

Iran is set to hold a runoff vote to elect a new leader on Friday, pitting a reformist who seeks dialogue with the West against a conservative hardliner.

Iran Elections: Run-off between ex-Health Minister Pezeshkian & Ex-Nuclear negotiator Jalili

<p>Polls opened in Iran on Friday (July 5) in a presidential runoff a week after the first round of presidential elections on June 28 that was made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The runoff on July 5 is being held between reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, and 58-year-old hardliner Saeed Jalili since neither of the two secured more than 50 per cent votes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The structure of power in Iran: How is it different?</strong></h2>

<p>Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure.</p>

<p>In 1989, the current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, succeeded Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the father of the Iranian Revolution. Khomeini and Khamenei are the only two men to have held the office since the founding of the Islamic Republic in 1979.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-iran-ties-in-ebrahim-raisi-years-between-brics-chabahar-and-central-asia-connectivity-723365">India-Iran ties in Ebrahim Raisi years: Between BRICS, Chabahar and Central Asia connectivity</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran's present-day constitution empowers the Supreme Leader with decisive controls to set the tone and direction of country's domestic and foreign policies. He also appoints, and can summarily dismiss, six of the twelve members of the Council of Guardians, the powerful body that can veto parliamentary decisions and determines which candidates are qualified to run for public office.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran elections 2024: Powers of a president</strong></h2>

<p>The Supreme Leader is the final arbiter in Tehran's corridors of power. The president is supposed to negotiate with Supreme Leader on all major policy decisions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-tehran-delivers-reformist-election-whisper-before-runoff-and-more-736552">The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more</a></strong></p>

<p>The president has a certain amount of executive power and the day-to-day running of the system. But the broader policymaking must essentially be in line with the overall ideology of the Islamic republic.</p>

<h2><strong>Masoud Pezeshkian Vs Saeed Jalili: The runoff battle</strong></h2>

<p>A total of six candidates, five of whom were deemed hardliners, were declared for the presidential ballot. But the two backed off a day before polling to purportedly ensure more decisive support to the candidate most favourable for the "ideology of Islamic republic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lone reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian managed to lead past hardliner and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But in case of a runoff, the supporters of two other conservative candidates from the first round are likely to vote for Jalili, making a return of reformist as Iran's president rather difficult.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-vote-in-snap-polls-with-hopes-for-better-economy-regional-stability-735900">Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability</a></strong></p>

<p>But the silver-lining for Pezeshkian,&nbsp;cardiac surgeon, lies in two factors. One, the conventional support for a reformist candidate among the Iranian urban dwellers and middle class, some of whom call for better ties with the global powers to escape the impact of crippling US economic sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Second, it's the voter turnout.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran's run-off elections on Friday, who will the poor turnout favour?</strong></p>

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<p>The first round of voting saw just about 40 per cent of all registered voters turning out to vote, the lowest since 1979 revolution. The densest numbers of voters turned out at rural polling centers, where conservatives reign supreme.</p>

<p>If Pezeshkian manages to get&nbsp;more Iranians out of their homes on runoff day, he may still stand a chance.&nbsp;</p>


Polls opened in Iran on Friday (July 5) in a presidential runoff a week after the first round of presidential elections on June 28 that was made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago.

Polls opened in Iran on Friday (July 5) in a presidential runoff a week after the first round of presidential elections on June 28 that was made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago. The runoff on July 5 is being held between reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, and 58-year-old hardliner Saeed Jalili since neither of the two secured more than 50 per cent votes. The structure of power in Iran: How is it different? Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure. In 1989, the current Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, succeeded Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the father of the Iranian Revolution. Khomeini and Khamenei are the only two men to have held the office since the founding of the Islamic Republic in 1979. Also read | India-Iran ties in Ebrahim Raisi years: Between BRICS, Chabahar and Central Asia connectivity Iran's present-day constitution empowers the Supreme Leader with decisive controls to set the tone and direction of country's domestic and foreign policies. He also appoints, and can summarily dismiss, six of the twelve members of the Council of Guardians, the powerful body that can veto parliamentary decisions and determines which candidates are qualified to run for public office. Iran elections 2024: Powers of a president The Supreme Leader is the final arbiter in Tehran's corridors of power. The president is supposed to negotiate with Supreme Leader on all major policy decisions. Also read | The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more The president has a certain amount of executive power and the day-to-day running of the system. But the broader policymaking must essentially be in line with the overall ideology of the Islamic republic. Masoud Pezeshkian Vs Saeed Jalili: The runoff battle A total of six candidates, five of whom were deemed hardliners, were declared for the presidential ballot. But the two backed off a day before polling to purportedly ensure more decisive support to the candidate most favourable for the "ideology of Islamic republic. The lone reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian managed to lead past hardliner and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But in case of a runoff, the supporters of two other conservative candidates from the first round are likely to vote for Jalili, making a return of reformist as Iran's president rather difficult. Also read | Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability But the silver-lining for Pezeshkian, cardiac surgeon, lies in two factors. One, the conventional support for a reformist candidate among the Iranian urban dwellers and middle class, some of whom call for better ties with the global powers to escape the impact of crippling US economic sanctions. Second, it's the voter turnout. Also watch | Iran's run-off elections on Friday, who will the poor turnout favour? × The first round of voting saw just about 40 per cent of all registered voters turning out to vote, the lowest since 1979 revolution. The densest numbers of voters turned out at rural polling centers, where conservatives reign supreme. If Pezeshkian manages to get more Iranians out of their homes on runoff day, he may still stand a chance.

Iran elections: Will cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian win hearts in runoff?

<p class="MsoNormal">The voting for the presidential elections in Iran is currently underway, with citizens set to choose the successor of former president Ebrahim Raisi.&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Voting commenced on Friday (July 5) at 7 am local time and is expected to end at 6 pm, according to local media.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, voting is usually extended until midnight in some areas due to low turnout and disturbances.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-will-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-win-peoples-hearts-in-runoff-737606" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-will-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-win-peoples-hearts-in-runoff-737606&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjcl6a_y4-HAxXzsVYBHe5vDswQFnoECAgQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0t0OYSIYx1waZPIZovR2Df&amp;arm=e&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-will-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-win-peoples-hearts-in-runoff-737606" target="_blank"><b>Iran elections</b>: Will cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian win hearts in runoff?</a></p>

<p>It may be mentioned here that&nbsp;the presidential run-off follows a ballot held on June 28, with a historic low turnout, where over 60% voters refrained from the snap election for a successor to Ebrahim Raisi, following his death in a helicopter crash.</p>

<p>The presidential elections are set to be a close race between two key candidates - Masoud Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili.</p>

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<p>Pezeshkian was the sole moderate in the original field of four candidates, while Jalili is a hardliner and former nuclear negotiator.</p>

<p>The elections are important due to regional tensions in the Middle East and Iran's tense relations with the West over Tehran's nuclear programme.</p>

<p>Analysts suggest that a victory for Jalili might lead to increased hostilities with the West and potentially more antagonistic domestic and foreign policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pezeshkian is expected to promote a more pragmatic foreign policy and a liberalised regime in the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Masoud Pezeshkian Vs Saeed Jalili: The runoff battle</strong></h2>

<p>A total of six candidates, five of whom were deemed hardliners, were declared for the presidential ballot. But the two backed off a day before polling to purportedly ensure more decisive support to the candidate most favourable for the "ideology of Islamic republic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lone reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian managed to lead past hardliner and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But in case of a runoff, the supporters of two other conservative candidates from the first round are likely to vote for Jalili, making a return of reformist as Iran's president rather difficult.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-iran-ties-in-ebrahim-raisi-years-between-brics-chabahar-and-central-asia-connectivity-723365" target="_blank">India-Iran ties in Ebrahim Raisi years: Between BRICS, Chabahar and Central Asia connectivity</a></strong></p>

<p>But the silver-lining for Pezeshkian, a cardiac surgeon, lies in two factors. One, the conventional support for a reformist candidate among the Iranian urban dwellers and middle class, some of whom call for better ties with the global powers to escape the impact of crippling US economic sanctions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Second, it's the voter turnout.</p>

<p>The first round of voting saw just about 40 per cent of all registered voters turning out to vote, the lowest since 1979 revolution. The densest numbers of voters turned out at rural polling centres, where conservatives reign supreme.</p>

<p>If Pezeshkian manages to get more Iranians out of their homes on runoff day, he may still stand a chance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The voting for the presidential elections in Iran is currently underway, with citizens set to choose the successor of former president Ebrahim Raisi. Voting commenced on Friday (July 5) at 7 am local time and is expected to end at 6 pm, according to local media.

The voting for the presidential elections in Iran is currently underway, with citizens set to choose the successor of former president Ebrahim Raisi. Voting commenced on Friday (July 5) at 7 am local time and is expected to end at 6 pm, according to local media. However, voting is usually extended until midnight in some areas due to low turnout and disturbances. Also read: Iran elections: Will cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian win hearts in runoff? It may be mentioned here that the presidential run-off follows a ballot held on June 28, with a historic low turnout, where over 60% voters refrained from the snap election for a successor to Ebrahim Raisi, following his death in a helicopter crash. The presidential elections are set to be a close race between two key candidates - Masoud Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili. × Pezeshkian was the sole moderate in the original field of four candidates, while Jalili is a hardliner and former nuclear negotiator. The elections are important due to regional tensions in the Middle East and Iran's tense relations with the West over Tehran's nuclear programme. Analysts suggest that a victory for Jalili might lead to increased hostilities with the West and potentially more antagonistic domestic and foreign policies. Meanwhile, Pezeshkian is expected to promote a more pragmatic foreign policy and a liberalised regime in the country. Masoud Pezeshkian Vs Saeed Jalili: The runoff battle A total of six candidates, five of whom were deemed hardliners, were declared for the presidential ballot. But the two backed off a day before polling to purportedly ensure more decisive support to the candidate most favourable for the "ideology of Islamic republic. The lone reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian managed to lead past hardliner and former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But in case of a runoff, the supporters of two other conservative candidates from the first round are likely to vote for Jalili, making a return of reformist as Iran's president rather difficult. Also read | India-Iran ties in Ebrahim Raisi years: Between BRICS, Chabahar and Central Asia connectivity But the silver-lining for Pezeshkian, a cardiac surgeon, lies in two factors. One, the conventional support for a reformist candidate among the Iranian urban dwellers and middle class, some of whom call for better ties with the global powers to escape the impact of crippling US economic sanctions. Second, it's the voter turnout. The first round of voting saw just about 40 per cent of all registered voters turning out to vote, the lowest since 1979 revolution. The densest numbers of voters turned out at rural polling centres, where conservatives reign supreme. If Pezeshkian manages to get more Iranians out of their homes on runoff day, he may still stand a chance. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Presidential run-off election: Pezeshkian vs Jalili, who will win?

Iran will proceed to a run-off election after neither hardline candidate Saeed Jalili nor reformist contender Massoud Pezeshkian secured a majority in the presidential race. Watch in for more details!

Iran's run-off elections on Friday, who will the poor turnout favour?

Iran Presidential Elections: Pezeshkian vs Jalili - Who will succeed Ebrahim Raisi?

Iran Presidential Elections: How election outcome will impact women's rights in Iran

Iran Presidential Elections: Jalili advocates domestic power to counter US sanctions

Iran Presidential Election: Presidential run-off on July 5 | Can Iran's Conservatives take lead?

Iran: Run-off elections after neither candidates secured majority

<p>Between Atlantic and Mediterranean, the global election summer is beginning to peak. This week, the corridors of power in Tehran, Washington D.C., London and Paris appeared in the middle of a flux that could reshape geo-economic dynamics of our increasingly polarised world.</p>

<p>In Tehran, the all-powerful Guardian Council's concession of a reformist candidate in the presidential election turned the tables and now there will be a runoff election between the reformist and a Khamenei loyalist.</p>

<p>In Washington D.C., President Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump has made the specter of a Trump presidency all too real.</p>

<p>In Paris, President Macron's snap election gamble is playing in the hands of far right.</p>

<p>Read this and more, in The Capitals, this weekend.</p>

<h2><strong>Tehran, Iran</strong></h2>

<p>A total of six candidates were running for president a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash. By the eve of elections, the field was down to four with&nbsp;voluntary retractions by two Khamenei loyalists and purportedly to ensure more support for&nbsp;hardline former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But Jalili failed to establish a decisive lead over reformist&nbsp;lawmaker Masoud Pezeshkian.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-one-reformist-four-khameini-loyalists-to-battle-it-out-in-june-28-polls-735562">Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists battle it out in June 28 polls</a></strong></p>

<p>The voter turnout was reported to be just about 40 per cent, a record low for an Iranian presidential election since 1979 revolution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The initial results showed Pezeshkian received 10.45 million&nbsp;votes, Jalili 9.47 million&nbsp;and the other leading conservative Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf 3.38 million. A fourth candidate, Mostafa Pourmohammadi, a former justice minister&nbsp;won only 206,000.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-vote-in-snap-polls-with-hopes-for-better-economy-regional-stability-735900">Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability</a></strong></p>

<p>The runoff between Pezeshkian and Jalili will take place on Friday (July 5). But this doesn't mean a win for the Iran's reformist camp. The bulk of the Ghalibaf votes (about 3.38 million) are predicted to switch to Jalili. Unless Pezeshkian manages to get more voters out of their homes given that the first round showed he stands a chance to win, it'll all but a smokescreen of hope for the reformists in Iran intending to get out of the shadow of conservative norms that have come to define Iranian life after 1979.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Paris, France</strong></h2>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron is a big-time fan of literature. On state visits, he has made it a point to meet literature pioneers of the host country. To state guests, he has gifted Marcel Proust's first edition novels. It is somewhat based on this literary idealism that Macron called snap elections earlier in June after his party was trounced in European parliamentary elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While most predictions point to a surge in the fortunes of far-right party of Marine Le Pen in a historic first, the numbers are not yet in and the verdict is not yet out.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;France Polls: What's at stake and what to expect?</strong></p>

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<p>But French voters have turned out in large numbers on Sunday (June 30) for the first round of high-stakes snap parliamentary elections.</p>

<p>The two-round vote could put the far-right in power in France for the first time since the Nazi occupation in the second World War.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Macron and his wife Brigitte cast their ballots in Le Touquet in northern France, with the 46-year-old president seen taking selfies and mingling with supporters.</p>

<p>Final opinion polls have given the Le Pen's National Rally between 35 per cent and 37 per cent of the vote, compared to 27.5-29 per cent for the left-wing New Popular Front alliance, and 20-21 per cent for Macron's centrist camp.</p>


Between Atlantic and Mediterranean, the global election summer is beginning to peak. This week, the corridors of power in Tehran, Washington D.C., London and Paris appeared in the middle of a flux that could reshape geo-economic dynamics of our increasingly polarised world.

Between Atlantic and Mediterranean, the global election summer is beginning to peak. This week, the corridors of power in Tehran, Washington D.C., London and Paris appeared in the middle of a flux that could reshape geo-economic dynamics of our increasingly polarised world. In Tehran, the all-powerful Guardian Council's concession of a reformist candidate in the presidential election turned the tables and now there will be a runoff election between the reformist and a Khamenei loyalist. In Washington D.C., President Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump has made the specter of a Trump presidency all too real. In Paris, President Macron's snap election gamble is playing in the hands of far right. Read this and more, in The Capitals, this weekend. Tehran, Iran A total of six candidates were running for president a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash. By the eve of elections, the field was down to four with voluntary retractions by two Khamenei loyalists and purportedly to ensure more support for hardline former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. But Jalili failed to establish a decisive lead over reformist lawmaker Masoud Pezeshkian. Also read | Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists battle it out in June 28 polls The voter turnout was reported to be just about 40 per cent, a record low for an Iranian presidential election since 1979 revolution. The initial results showed Pezeshkian received 10.45 million votes, Jalili 9.47 million and the other leading conservative Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf 3.38 million. A fourth candidate, Mostafa Pourmohammadi, a former justice minister won only 206,000. Also read | Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability The runoff between Pezeshkian and Jalili will take place on Friday (July 5). But this doesn't mean a win for the Iran's reformist camp. The bulk of the Ghalibaf votes (about 3.38 million) are predicted to switch to Jalili. Unless Pezeshkian manages to get more voters out of their homes given that the first round showed he stands a chance to win, it'll all but a smokescreen of hope for the reformists in Iran intending to get out of the shadow of conservative norms that have come to define Iranian life after 1979. Paris, France French President Emmanuel Macron is a big-time fan of literature. On state visits, he has made it a point to meet literature pioneers of the host country. To state guests, he has gifted Marcel Proust's first edition novels. It is somewhat based on this literary idealism that Macron called snap elections earlier in June after his party was trounced in European parliamentary elections. While most predictions point to a surge in the fortunes of far-right party of Marine Le Pen in a historic first, the numbers are not yet in and the verdict is not yet out. Also watch | France Polls: What's at stake and what to expect? × But French voters have turned out in large numbers on Sunday (June 30) for the first round of high-stakes snap parliamentary elections. The two-round vote could put the far-right in power in France for the first time since the Nazi occupation in the second World War. Macron and his wife Brigitte cast their ballots in Le Touquet in northern France, with the 46-year-old president seen taking selfies and mingling with supporters. Final opinion polls have given the Le Pen's National Rally between 35 per cent and 37 per cent of the vote, compared to 27.5-29 per cent for the left-wing New Popular Front alliance, and 20-21 per cent for Macron's centrist camp.

The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more

Iran announced Saturday it will hold a runoff presidential election to replace the late hard-line President Ebrahim Raisi. This after, pro-reform presidential candidate Masoud Pezeshkian came first in vote counting but he is immediately followed by hardliner candidate Saeed Jalili. Watch in for more details!

Iran's presidential election heads to a runoff

With vote counting over in Iran, pro-reform presidential candidate Masoud Pezeshkian comes first but he is immediately followed by principlist candidate Saeed Jalili. Watch in for more details!

Iran Presidential Elections: Counting closes, Pezeshkian and Jalili head to run-off vote

<p>Iran's sole reformist candidate, Masoud Pezeshkian, and ultraconservative Saeed Jalili will advance to runoffs after securing the highest number of votes in the presidential election, the interior ministry announced on Saturday (June 29).</p>

<p>Pezeshkian received more than 10,400,000 votes, while Jalili, a former nuclear negotiator, garnered over 9,400,000 votes, according to Mohsen Eslami, the spokesman for Iran's election authority.</p>

<p>"None of the candidates could get the complete majority of the votes, therefore, the first and second contenders who got the most votes will be referred" for the second round, scheduled for next Friday (July 5), Eslami told during a press conference.</p>

<p>Out of around 61 million eligible voters, some 24,500,000 voters headed to the polls, he added, with a turnout of around 40 percent -- the lowest yet in the history of the Islamic republic.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-presidential-elections-hard-liner-saeed-jalili-leads-in-early-trends-vote-counting-underway-736181">Iran presidential elections: Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili in neck and neck battle, as counting underway</a></p>

<p>Out of Iran's 13 previous presidential elections since the Islamic revolution in 1979, only one led to a runoff, which occurred in 2005.</p>

<p>Conservative parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf received about 3,383,340 votes and Mostafa Pourmohammadi, a conservative cleric, got 206,397 votes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A total of 1,056,159 spoiled ballots were counted by the election authority.</p>

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<p>Notably, elections were originally scheduled for 2025 but were held early following the death of ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month.</p>

<p>The Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates in the Islamic republic, had initially approved six contenders.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-presidential-election-iranians-in-india-vote-in-polls-tehran-thanks-new-delhi-736025" target="_blank">Iran presidential election: Iranians in India vote in polls; Tehran thanks New Delhi</a></p>

<p>But a day ahead of the election, two candidates -- the ultraconservative mayor of Tehran Alireza Zakani and Raisi's vice president Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh-Hashemi -- dropped out of the race.</p>

<h2><strong>Who are those going into runoff?</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>Masoud Pezeshkian</strong></h2>

<p><strong><img alt="Masoud Pezeshkian" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f2edd56-8ef5-4713-8358-e63424ca974e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_34ZJ778.jpg" /></strong></p>

<p>Masoud Pezeshkian is a heart surgeon who has represented the northern city of Tabriz in parliament since 2008.</p>

<p>The 69-year-old has served as health minister under Iran's last reformist president Mohammad Khatami, who held office from 1997 to 2005 and has endorsed Pezeshkian's bid in the current elections.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian criticised Raisi's government for a lack of transparency during the nationwide protests triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in September 2022.</p>

<p>While in recent campaigning, Pezeshkian called for constructive relations with the United States and European countries in order to get Iran out of its isolation.</p>

<h2><strong>Saeed Jalili</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Saeed Jalili" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5ccc7697-e6ff-4ff2-bd21-09540871eb9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_34ZL4W9.jpg" /></p>

<p>Ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, Iran's former nuclear negotiator, has maintained his uncompromising anti-West stance.</p>

<p>The 58-year-old has held several higher positions in the Islamic republic, including in Khamenei's office in the early 2000s.</p>

<p>Jalili is currently one of Khamenei's representatives in the Supreme National Security Council, Iran's highest security body.</p>

<p>In 2001, he was appointed director of policy planning in the Office of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution.</p>

<p>From 2007 to 2013, Jalili served as the secretary of the country’s top security body and also as the lead negotiator with Western states on Iran's nuclear program.</p>

<p>He ran for the presidency in 2021 but withdrew in favor of Ebrahim Raeisi, who eventually won by a landslide.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran's sole reformist candidate, Masoud Pezeshkian, and ultraconservative Saeed Jalili will advance to runoffs after securing the highest number of votes in the presidential election, the interior ministry announced on Saturday (June 29).

Iran's sole reformist candidate, Masoud Pezeshkian, and ultraconservative Saeed Jalili will advance to runoffs after securing the highest number of votes in the presidential election, the interior ministry announced on Saturday (June 29). Pezeshkian received more than 10,400,000 votes, while Jalili, a former nuclear negotiator, garnered over 9,400,000 votes, according to Mohsen Eslami, the spokesman for Iran's election authority. "None of the candidates could get the complete majority of the votes, therefore, the first and second contenders who got the most votes will be referred" for the second round, scheduled for next Friday (July 5), Eslami told during a press conference. Out of around 61 million eligible voters, some 24,500,000 voters headed to the polls, he added, with a turnout of around 40 percent -- the lowest yet in the history of the Islamic republic. Also read: Iran presidential elections: Pezeshkian and Saeed Jalili in neck and neck battle, as counting underway Out of Iran's 13 previous presidential elections since the Islamic revolution in 1979, only one led to a runoff, which occurred in 2005. Conservative parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf received about 3,383,340 votes and Mostafa Pourmohammadi, a conservative cleric, got 206,397 votes. A total of 1,056,159 spoiled ballots were counted by the election authority. × Notably, elections were originally scheduled for 2025 but were held early following the death of ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. The Guardian Council, which vets electoral candidates in the Islamic republic, had initially approved six contenders. Also Read: Iran presidential election: Iranians in India vote in polls; Tehran thanks New Delhi But a day ahead of the election, two candidates -- the ultraconservative mayor of Tehran Alireza Zakani and Raisi's vice president Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh-Hashemi -- dropped out of the race. Who are those going into runoff? Masoud Pezeshkian Masoud Pezeshkian is a heart surgeon who has represented the northern city of Tabriz in parliament since 2008. The 69-year-old has served as health minister under Iran's last reformist president Mohammad Khatami, who held office from 1997 to 2005 and has endorsed Pezeshkian's bid in the current elections. Pezeshkian criticised Raisi's government for a lack of transparency during the nationwide protests triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in September 2022. While in recent campaigning, Pezeshkian called for constructive relations with the United States and European countries in order to get Iran out of its isolation. Saeed Jalili Ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, Iran's former nuclear negotiator, has maintained his uncompromising anti-West stance. The 58-year-old has held several higher positions in the Islamic republic, including in Khamenei's office in the early 2000s. Jalili is currently one of Khamenei's representatives in the Supreme National Security Council, Iran's highest security body. In 2001, he was appointed director of policy planning in the Office of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. From 2007 to 2013, Jalili served as the secretary of the country’s top security body and also as the lead negotiator with Western states on Iran's nuclear program. He ran for the presidency in 2021 but withdrew in favor of Ebrahim Raeisi, who eventually won by a landslide. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran presidential election goes into runoff' between reformist Pezeshkian and hardliner Jalili

<p>The verdict of the first presidential debate between&nbsp;US President Joe Biden and his predecessor-turned-challenger Donald Trump appears to be tilted in Trump's favour. Heavy rainfall in New Delhi has resulted in a citywide waterlogging crisis. Meanwhile, polls have opened in Iran to elect a new president.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-vs-trump-in-us-presidential-debate-2024-top-takeaways-explained-735850"><strong>Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440426-trumpbidendebate2024.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate ahead of the November presidential elections.&nbsp;An ageing Joe Biden, 81, just three years older than his challenger Donald Trump, struggled as Trump delivered some of the most damaging attacks on the veteran Democrat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="Iran's Presidential Election 2024: Two candidates drop out of Iran's presidential race"><strong>Iran's Presidential Election 2024: Two candidates drop out of Iran's presidential race</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/roof-collapses-at-terminal-1-of-delhi-airport-amid-heavy-rains-four-injured-735833"><strong>One killed, six injured as roof collapses at Terminal-1 of Delhi airport amid heavy rains</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440403-airport-roof.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>One person was killed and six others were injured&nbsp;after a roof at Terminal-1 of New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport collapsed amid heavy rains on Friday (June 28) as India's national capital came to a standstill amid inundated roads and submerged cars, reported news agency ANI.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-axar-patel-rohit-sharma-dismantle-england-in-guyana-as-team-india-reach-final-735802"><strong>T20 World Cup 2024: Axar Patel, Rohit Sharma dismantle England in Guyana as Team India reach final</strong></a></p>

<p>Team India will have a date with destiny on Saturday (June 29) after they reached the final of the T20 World Cup by beating England in the semifinal in Guyana. A rain-affected contest where India were on&nbsp;top in all the departments saw the Men in Blue beat England by 68 runs at the Providence Stadium in Guyana. India will now play South Africa in the final in Barbados on Saturday as they look to win their second T20 World Cup.</p>


The verdict of the first presidential debate between US President Joe Biden and his predecessor-turned-challenger Donald Trump appears to be tilted in Trump's favour.

The verdict of the first presidential debate between US President Joe Biden and his predecessor-turned-challenger Donald Trump appears to be tilted in Trump's favour. Heavy rainfall in New Delhi has resulted in a citywide waterlogging crisis. Meanwhile, polls have opened in Iran to elect a new president. Click here to read more: Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024 US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump sparred during the first presidential debate ahead of the November presidential elections. An ageing Joe Biden, 81, just three years older than his challenger Donald Trump, struggled as Trump delivered some of the most damaging attacks on the veteran Democrat. Iran's Presidential Election 2024: Two candidates drop out of Iran's presidential race × One killed, six injured as roof collapses at Terminal-1 of Delhi airport amid heavy rains One person was killed and six others were injured after a roof at Terminal-1 of New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport collapsed amid heavy rains on Friday (June 28) as India's national capital came to a standstill amid inundated roads and submerged cars, reported news agency ANI. T20 World Cup 2024: Axar Patel, Rohit Sharma dismantle England in Guyana as Team India reach final Team India will have a date with destiny on Saturday (June 29) after they reached the final of the T20 World Cup by beating England in the semifinal in Guyana. A rain-affected contest where India were on top in all the departments saw the Men in Blue beat England by 68 runs at the Providence Stadium in Guyana. India will now play South Africa in the final in Barbados on Saturday as they look to win their second T20 World Cup.

Morning brief: Biden struggles against Trump in presidential debate; polls open in Iran elections; and more

The following are among the Irainian President's responsibilities, subject to oversight and approval by the Supreme Leader: Chairperson of the Cabinet and second in command (after the Supreme Leader) of the executive arm of government.

Iran's Presidential Election 2024: Voting begins in snap presidential election after Raisi's death

At eight in the morning local time, leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei casted his ballot at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Husseiniya in front of eager reporters and photographers. Ayatollah Khamenei prayed for the Iranian nation's brightest days and years in remarks made following the 14th presidential election.

The Guardian Council of Iran, a body of clerics and jurists ultimately subordinate to Khamenei, has not yet ratified a bill introduced by the country's parliament that could inflict 10-year prison sentences for violating the hijab. Only Pezeshkian, one of the presidential contenders, has criticized the hijab law thus far.

Iran votes amid tensions boiling over new hijab law

Voting starts in Iran's snap presidential election to choose a successor to Ebrahim Raisi following his death in a helicopter crash.

Iran's Presidential Election 2024: One reformist and three Khamenei loyalists battle it out

Iranians started voting on Friday for a new president following the death of Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash, choosing from a tightly controlled group of four candidates loyal to the supreme leader, at a time of growing public frustration.

Iran Presidential Election 2024 LIVE: Polls open to elect Raisi’s successor in Iran

The election coincides with escalating regional tension due to war between Israel and Iranian allies Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, as well as increased Western pressure on Iran over its fast-advancing nuclear programme.

Iran Presidential elections 2024: Iran begins voting in presidential election with limited choices

Iran Ambassador Dr Iraj Elahi spoke to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal earlier today on Presidential elections in the country and ties with India. He said,"Iran's political system is resilient and agile" and "will be no changes in foreign policy regarding Palestine, Nuclear issues, Defence, promote relationship with neighbouring countries, Asia" post elections. He lauded the country's ties with India. He mentioned that, "We appreciate the position of India calling one day mourning in India, showing solidarity"

Iranian Envoy Dr Iraj Ilahi speaks on Presidential elections, India Ties

<p>Iranians began voting in the country's snap presidential polls on Friday (June 28), over a month after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. Top Iranian leaders, including the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, entered voting centers to cast their vote for country's president whose influence is regulated by an all-powerful Guardian Council of 12 clerics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 61 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the polls. Of the six presidential candidates approved to run for presidency by the Guardian Council, two backed out less than 24 hours before the first ballot was cast. The field now consists of four candidates: reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, and three Khamenei loyalists, namely the nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and cleric Mostafa Pourmohammadi.</p>

<p>Two ultraconservatives, who dropped out on June 27, are Tehran major Alireza Zakani and Raisi's former vice president Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-one-reformist-four-khameini-loyalists-to-battle-it-out-in-june-28-polls-735562">Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the voting, some Iranian citizens raised concerns about the state of country's economy which is still reeling under US sanctions despite Tehran's bettering financial partnerships with Moscow, Central Asian capitals, Islamabad and New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking from Tehran's Tajrish market, Mohammed Mehdi, a student, hoped for a better state of higher education after Friday's polls. "The cost of education is my challenge as a student as it has gone rapidly up. The ease of access to higher education is what I expect which would eventually lead to a better economic situation," Mehdi told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ali Akbar Hosseini, a street vendor, favoured parliamentary speaker Bagher Ghalibaf in the polls because they come from the same town: Torqabeh, near Mashhad, in the province of Razavi Khorasan over 900 km east of Tehran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I just feel its necessary for all of us to vote. My duty is to vote. People should do something to address their problems by voting and not leave everything to the government," Hosseini told WION.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran Presidential elections 2024: Iran begins voting in presidential election with limited choices</strong></p>

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<p>Hassan Gudarzi, a student of mathematics, expected a future president to ensure better ties with neighbouring countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I expect more welfare by the government for the people and better relations with other countries specifically with neighbouring countries. There should be more diplomacy, more negotiations that would lead to making more relations with other countries which would be better for the country," Gudarzi told WION.</p>

<p>For overall stability in West Asia, Iran, with Beijing's mediation, restored its ties with Saudi Arabia in March 2023. But after its embassy in Syria was attacked in an alleged Israeli attack in April, Tehran launched missiles inside Israel earlier this year in a major escalation of a larger conflict in the region amid Israeli bombardments in Gaza. The attacks in the region by Iran-linked militia have been a major source of turbulence in West Asia.</p>


Iranians began voting in the country's snap presidential polls on Friday (June 28), over a month after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month.

Iranians began voting in the country's snap presidential polls on Friday (June 28), over a month after the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. Top Iranian leaders, including the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, entered voting centers to cast their vote for country's president whose influence is regulated by an all-powerful Guardian Council of 12 clerics. Around 61 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the polls. Of the six presidential candidates approved to run for presidency by the Guardian Council, two backed out less than 24 hours before the first ballot was cast. The field now consists of four candidates: reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, 69, and three Khamenei loyalists, namely the nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and cleric Mostafa Pourmohammadi. Two ultraconservatives, who dropped out on June 27, are Tehran major Alireza Zakani and Raisi's former vice president Amir-Hossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi. Also read | Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls Ahead of the voting, some Iranian citizens raised concerns about the state of country's economy which is still reeling under US sanctions despite Tehran's bettering financial partnerships with Moscow, Central Asian capitals, Islamabad and New Delhi. Speaking from Tehran's Tajrish market, Mohammed Mehdi, a student, hoped for a better state of higher education after Friday's polls. "The cost of education is my challenge as a student as it has gone rapidly up. The ease of access to higher education is what I expect which would eventually lead to a better economic situation," Mehdi told WION. Ali Akbar Hosseini, a street vendor, favoured parliamentary speaker Bagher Ghalibaf in the polls because they come from the same town: Torqabeh, near Mashhad, in the province of Razavi Khorasan over 900 km east of Tehran. "I just feel its necessary for all of us to vote. My duty is to vote. People should do something to address their problems by voting and not leave everything to the government," Hosseini told WION. Also watch | Iran Presidential elections 2024: Iran begins voting in presidential election with limited choices × Hassan Gudarzi, a student of mathematics, expected a future president to ensure better ties with neighbouring countries. "I expect more welfare by the government for the people and better relations with other countries specifically with neighbouring countries. There should be more diplomacy, more negotiations that would lead to making more relations with other countries which would be better for the country," Gudarzi told WION. For overall stability in West Asia, Iran, with Beijing's mediation, restored its ties with Saudi Arabia in March 2023. But after its embassy in Syria was attacked in an alleged Israeli attack in April, Tehran launched missiles inside Israel earlier this year in a major escalation of a larger conflict in the region amid Israeli bombardments in Gaza. The attacks in the region by Iran-linked militia have been a major source of turbulence in West Asia.

Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability

Iran's Presidential Election 2024: Can Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist President change Iran?

As Iran votes to elect as successor for the late president Ebrahim Raisi, two of the six candidates gearing up for the polls has already dropped out of this race. Watch this to know more.

Iran Presidential Elections 2024: Three-way contest expected between Pezeshkian, Jalili and Qalibaf

<p>Iran is set to elect a new president on Friday (June 28) as the country's constitution requires fresh elections in case the serving president is incapacitated. But hours ahead of the voting, two candidates, Amirhossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, one of the vice presidents of deceased former President Raisi, and Tehran mayor&nbsp;Alireza Zakani dropped their candidacy.</p>

<p>Ghazizadeh Hashemi is the ultraconservative head of the Martyrs' Foundation. Iran now has four presidential candidates.</p>

<p>After President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash last month, Mohammed Mokhber — the vice president in Raisi's tenure — assumed presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mokhber, himself, however does not feature in the list of six presidential candidates announced by Tehran for June 28 election, meaning that the country's all-powerful Guardian Council &nbsp;— composed of 12 clerics, six of whom are directly elected (and can be summarily dismissed) by the Supreme Leader Khamenei— wants somebody else at the helm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Of the four candidates, three&nbsp;are deemed Khamenei loyalists.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran election: Who is running to be Iran's next President?</strong></p>

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<p>The candidates include conservative speaker of parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and the ultraconservative former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. Just one reformist candidate, Massoud Pezeshkian, who is a lawmaker representing Tabriz in Iran's parliament, is running in the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The conservative former interior minister Mostafa Pourmohammadi has also been authorised to run.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who was previously disqualified from entering the presidential races in 2017 and 2021, has not been allowed to run for president once again.</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening in Iran right now? Why do these elections matter?</strong></h2>

<p>On economic front, Iran continues to face the burden of choking US sanctions amid Tehran's tacit insistence on becoming a nuclear power. But it still has friends in Russia and Central Asia. In recent years, Tehran has found New Delhi as a credible economic partner. The two countries recently formalised a crucial Chabahar port deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhi-achieves-crucial-strategic-breakthrough-with-tehran-outreach-682114">The Capitals: New Delhi achieves crucial strategic breakthrough with Tehran outreach</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhi-seals-deal-to-operate-chabahar-port-for-a-decade-723100">The Capitals: New Delhi seals deal to operate Chabahar port for a decade; and more</a></strong></p>

<p>For overall stability in West Asia, the country, with Beijing's mediation, restored its ties with Saudi Arabia in March 2023. But after its embassy in Syria was attacked in an alleged Israeli attack, Tehran launched missiles inside Israel earlier this year in a major escalation of a larger conflict in the region amid Israeli bombardments in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran also now enriches uranium at nearly weapons-grade levels and has enough of it to produce several nuclear weapons if it chooses.</p>

<p>But the hardline options in the Iran elections, alongside restrictions on women's headscarves have many in the country reportedly expressing their discontent saying they won't vote in Friday's elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran is set to elect a new president on Friday (June 28) as the country's constitution requires fresh elections in case the serving president is incapacitated. But hours ahead of the voting, two candidates, Amirhossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, one of the vice presidents of deceased former President Raisi, and Tehran mayor Alireza Zakani dropped their candidacy.

Iran is set to elect a new president on Friday (June 28) as the country's constitution requires fresh elections in case the serving president is incapacitated. But hours ahead of the voting, two candidates, Amirhossein Ghazizadeh Hashemi, one of the vice presidents of deceased former President Raisi, and Tehran mayor Alireza Zakani dropped their candidacy. Ghazizadeh Hashemi is the ultraconservative head of the Martyrs' Foundation. Iran now has four presidential candidates. After President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash last month, Mohammed Mokhber — the vice president in Raisi's tenure — assumed presidency. Mokhber, himself, however does not feature in the list of six presidential candidates announced by Tehran for June 28 election, meaning that the country's all-powerful Guardian Council — composed of 12 clerics, six of whom are directly elected (and can be summarily dismissed) by the Supreme Leader Khamenei— wants somebody else at the helm. Of the four candidates, three are deemed Khamenei loyalists. Also watch | Iran election: Who is running to be Iran's next President? × The candidates include conservative speaker of parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and the ultraconservative former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. Just one reformist candidate, Massoud Pezeshkian, who is a lawmaker representing Tabriz in Iran's parliament, is running in the elections. The conservative former interior minister Mostafa Pourmohammadi has also been authorised to run. Former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who was previously disqualified from entering the presidential races in 2017 and 2021, has not been allowed to run for president once again. What is happening in Iran right now? Why do these elections matter? On economic front, Iran continues to face the burden of choking US sanctions amid Tehran's tacit insistence on becoming a nuclear power. But it still has friends in Russia and Central Asia. In recent years, Tehran has found New Delhi as a credible economic partner. The two countries recently formalised a crucial Chabahar port deal. Also read | The Capitals: New Delhi achieves crucial strategic breakthrough with Tehran outreach Also read | The Capitals: New Delhi seals deal to operate Chabahar port for a decade; and more For overall stability in West Asia, the country, with Beijing's mediation, restored its ties with Saudi Arabia in March 2023. But after its embassy in Syria was attacked in an alleged Israeli attack, Tehran launched missiles inside Israel earlier this year in a major escalation of a larger conflict in the region amid Israeli bombardments in Gaza. Iran also now enriches uranium at nearly weapons-grade levels and has enough of it to produce several nuclear weapons if it chooses. But the hardline options in the Iran elections, alongside restrictions on women's headscarves have many in the country reportedly expressing their discontent saying they won't vote in Friday's elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls

The Biden Administration is pressing its European allies to back off from rebuking Iran for advancements in its nuclear program. This move has led to speculations if the president is seeking to keep tensions with Iran at Bay in the leadup to the presidential elections in November.

Biden presses allies not to confront Iran | US easing stance on Iran in wake of elections? | WION

<p>Iranians had the chance to cast ballots for parliament again on Friday in regions where candidates failed to secure enough votes in March, when conservatives and ultra-conservatives won a majority.</p>

<p>First-round voting saw a turnout of 41 percent, marking the lowest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Candidates needed at least 20 percent of all valid votes in their constituency to be elected in the initial round.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-foreign-minister-zameer-mindful-on-concerns-over-china-vessel-visit-seeks-debt-relief-from-india-719884">Maldives Foreign Minister Zameer mindful of concerns over China vessel visit; seeks debt relief from India</a></p>

<p>Friday's vote was to fill the seats of 45 deputies, out of the 290 in parliament, in 15 of Iran's 31 provinces, including Tehran, officials said.</p>

<p>Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among the first to cast a ballot as voting began.</p>

<p>"If God wishes, dear people, everyone should participate in these elections and vote. Greater participation signifies a stronger parliament," he said.</p>

<p>In March, 25 million Iranians took part, out of 61 million eligible voters.</p>

<p>The main coalition of reform parties, the Reform Front, had said ahead of the first round that it would not take part in "meaningless, non-competitive and ineffective elections".</p>

<p>The vote was the first since nationwide protests broke out following the September 2022 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22.</p>

<p>Amini, an Iranian Kurd, had been arrested for allegedly flouting the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women.</p>

<p><strong>Also read</strong>:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-lies-condom-mention-and-trumps-track-record-key-takeaways-from-day-2-of-stormy-daniels-testimony-719923">Alleged lies, condom mention, and Trump's 'track record': Key takeaways from Day 2 of Stormy Daniels testimony</a></p>

<p>Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi on Wednesday said participation in the second round was "as important" as the first.</p>

<p>"Those with influence among the people should encourage the nation to participate in it," he said, according to Mehr news agency.</p>

<p>In the 2016 parliamentary elections, first-round turnout was above 61 percent, before falling to 42.57 percent in 2020 when elections took place during the Covid pandemic.</p>


Iranians had the chance to cast ballots for parliament again on Friday in regions where candidates failed to secure enough votes in March, when conservatives and ultra-conservatives won a majority.

Iranians had the chance to cast ballots for parliament again on Friday in regions where candidates failed to secure enough votes in March, when conservatives and ultra-conservatives won a majority. First-round voting saw a turnout of 41 percent, marking the lowest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Candidates needed at least 20 percent of all valid votes in their constituency to be elected in the initial round. Also read: Maldives Foreign Minister Zameer mindful of concerns over China vessel visit; seeks debt relief from India Friday's vote was to fill the seats of 45 deputies, out of the 290 in parliament, in 15 of Iran's 31 provinces, including Tehran, officials said. Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was among the first to cast a ballot as voting began. "If God wishes, dear people, everyone should participate in these elections and vote. Greater participation signifies a stronger parliament," he said. In March, 25 million Iranians took part, out of 61 million eligible voters. The main coalition of reform parties, the Reform Front, had said ahead of the first round that it would not take part in "meaningless, non-competitive and ineffective elections". The vote was the first since nationwide protests broke out following the September 2022 death in custody of Mahsa Amini, 22. Amini, an Iranian Kurd, had been arrested for allegedly flouting the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women. Also read: Alleged lies, condom mention, and Trump's 'track record': Key takeaways from Day 2 of Stormy Daniels testimony Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi on Wednesday said participation in the second round was "as important" as the first. "Those with influence among the people should encourage the nation to participate in it," he said, according to Mehr news agency. In the 2016 parliamentary elections, first-round turnout was above 61 percent, before falling to 42.57 percent in 2020 when elections took place during the Covid pandemic.

Iranians vote to finalise makeup of conservative-dominated chamber

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