Amid a dismal voter turnout, Iran's conservative Islamist leadership is set to make a comeback. What does this mean for a country scrambling under western sanctions?

Iran elections: Iranian Conservatives sweep polls amid record-low turnout

Iranian conservatives sweep elections

Iran goes to polls on Friday. Over 15,000 people are contesting in this parliamentary election. More than 61 million people are eligible to vote but authorities fear most of them might skip this election. People are frustrated with rising inflation, growing political mistrust and quashed protests.

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Iran votes to elect Parliament, religious leaders | Array of social, political & religious problems

Iran will hold parliamentary elections on Friday amid widespread discontent over the country’s failing economy, but it’s likely that few voters will turn out at the ballot. Watch in for more details!

Iranians prepare for parliamentary elections on March 1

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The Hijab issue gains prominence ahead of polls. Iranian clerics divided over Hijab issue. Over 70,000 warnings issued in QOM for Hijab defiance since March. Watch to know more!

Iran: Women without Hijab to be denied of their voting rights?

Iranians are voting to choose their next President. But all the odds are stacked in the favour of one man. Will hardliner Ebrahim Raisi become the next president of Iran? This week, on The West Asia Post, Ghadi Francis takes a look at Iran's presidential elections.

The West Asia Post: Who will be Iran's next President?

Iran is electing its next President. Of the 600+ candidates who wanted to contest, only 4 have managed to run for office. Conservative candidate Ebrahim Raisi is tipped to win. What does this mean for India? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Presidential election in Iran

The majority of voters in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;shunned presidential&nbsp;elections&nbsp;won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi,&nbsp;exiled&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system.

Raisi won 62 per cent of the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;with about 90 per cent of ballots counted from Friday's&nbsp;election, Iranian authorities said. Turnout figures have yet to be released.

Iranian&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;groups based abroad had urged a&nbsp;boycott&nbsp;of the poll, which was held after the most prominent rivals to Raisi were either disqualified in pre-election&nbsp;vetting or withdrew.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ultraconservative-cleric-ebrahim-raisi-wins-irans-presidential-election-392598">Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election</a>

Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the National Council of Resistance of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;(NCRI), said the "nationwide&nbsp;boycott" was the "greatest political and social blow" to the system led by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"The&nbsp;boycott&nbsp;proved and showed the world that the Iranian people's only&nbsp;vote&nbsp;is to overthrow this mediaeval regime," she was quoted by the NCRI as saying.

'Unity and solidarity'&nbsp;

The NCRI, in accusations backed by leading human rights groups, says that Raisi was part of a death commission that sent thousands of&nbsp;jailed opponents to their deaths within a few months in the summer of 1988.

Most of those killed were supporters of the People's Mujahedin Organisation of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;(MEK/PMOI) whose political wing is the NCRI. It backed Saddam Hussein's Iraq in the 1980-1988 war with&nbsp;Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-under-us-sanctions-set-to-take-over-iran-presidency-392512">Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency</a>

The MEK believed that the actual turnout was 10 per cent and the authorities would inflate it by a factor of five in an "astronomical fabrication", the NCRI said.

This assessment was based on reports of 1,200 witnesses from 400 cities in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and more than 3,500 video clips from polling stations, it said, without indicating how the figure had been calculated or giving further numerical proof.

Reza Pahlavi, the son of deposed shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and heir to the throne before the 1979 Islamic revolution, wrote on his official Twitter channel that Iranians had shown "unity and solidarity" by "boycotting and saying no to the authoritarian regime in&nbsp;Iran."

"You have shown the will and power of the nation. Your freedom is near," he added.

Figures inside&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;had also called for a&nbsp;boycott after the disqualification of prominent candidates in pre-vote&nbsp;vetting by the Guardians Council oversight body.

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Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running, said he would not&nbsp;vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin."

Khamenei however hailed the&nbsp;election&nbsp;however as a victory "in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media."

Amnesty International said Saturday Raisi had "presided over a spiralling crackdown on human rights" while serving as judiciary chief for the past two years and should be investigated for the 1988 killings.

"That Ebrahim Raisi has risen to the presidency instead of being investigated for the crimes against humanity of murder, enforced disappearance and torture, is a grim reminder that impunity reigns supreme in&nbsp;Iran," said its Secretary-General Agnes&nbsp;Callamard.

The majority of voters in Iran shunned presidential elections won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, exiled opposition groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system.

The majority of voters in Iran shunned presidential elections won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, exiled opposition groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system. Raisi won 62 per cent of the vote with about 90 per cent of ballots counted from Friday's election, Iranian authorities said. Turnout figures have yet to be released. Iranian opposition groups based abroad had urged a boycott of the poll, which was held after the most prominent rivals to Raisi were either disqualified in pre-election vetting or withdrew. Also read | Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), said the "nationwide boycott" was the "greatest political and social blow" to the system led by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "The boycott proved and showed the world that the Iranian people's only vote is to overthrow this mediaeval regime," she was quoted by the NCRI as saying. 'Unity and solidarity' The NCRI, in accusations backed by leading human rights groups, says that Raisi was part of a death commission that sent thousands of jailed opponents to their deaths within a few months in the summer of 1988. Most of those killed were supporters of the People's Mujahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK/PMOI) whose political wing is the NCRI. It backed Saddam Hussein's Iraq in the 1980-1988 war with Iran. Also read | Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency The MEK believed that the actual turnout was 10 per cent and the authorities would inflate it by a factor of five in an "astronomical fabrication", the NCRI said. This assessment was based on reports of 1,200 witnesses from 400 cities in Iran and more than 3,500 video clips from polling stations, it said, without indicating how the figure had been calculated or giving further numerical proof. Reza Pahlavi, the son of deposed shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and heir to the throne before the 1979 Islamic revolution, wrote on his official Twitter channel that Iranians had shown "unity and solidarity" by "boycotting and saying no to the authoritarian regime in Iran." "You have shown the will and power of the nation. Your freedom is near," he added. Figures inside Iran had also called for a boycott after the disqualification of prominent candidates in pre-vote vetting by the Guardians Council oversight body. Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running, said he would not vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin." Khamenei however hailed the election however as a victory "in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media." Amnesty International said Saturday Raisi had "presided over a spiralling crackdown on human rights" while serving as judiciary chief for the past two years and should be investigated for the 1988 killings. "That Ebrahim Raisi has risen to the presidency instead of being investigated for the crimes against humanity of murder, enforced disappearance and torture, is a grim reminder that impunity reigns supreme in Iran," said its Secretary-General Agnes Callamard.

Exiled opposition hails 'boycott' of Iran vote

Ebrahim Raisi (60), an ultraconservative cleric was declared winner of Saturday's presidential election in Iran. He will be the next president of the country. His victory was widely anticipated after many political heavyweights were barred from running.

Raisi won 62 percent of the vote with about 90 percent of ballots counted from Friday's election, poll officials said, without releasing turnout figures, after the three other candidates had conceded defeat.

"I congratulate the people on their choice," said outgoing moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who has served the maximum of two consecutive four-year terms and leaves office in August.

Raisi is set to take over as Iran's president at a critical time. Iran is currently seeking to salvage its tattered nuclear deal with major powers in the world and also seeking to free itself from crippling US sanctions that have caused economic downturn in the country. Iran had struck a nuclear deal with US and other world powers but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the deal, creating uncertainty about future of the deal. After Joe Biden became US president, talks to rescue the deal started.

The head of the Iranian judiciary, whose black turban signifies direct descent from Islam's Prophet Mohammed, Raisi is seen as close to the 81-year-old supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has ultimate political power in Iran.

Friday's voting was extended by two hours past the original midnight deadline amid fears of a low turnout of 50 percent or less.&nbsp;

Many voters chose to stay away after the field of some 600 hopefuls including 40 women had been winnowed down to seven candidates, all men, excluding an ex-president and a former parliament speaker.

Three of the vetted candidates dropped out of the race two days before Friday's vote.

Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running by the Guardian Council of clerics and jurists, said he would not vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin."

Raisi's victory was confirmed Saturday when he received the congratulations of the incumbent and the three other candidates -- ultraconservatives Mohsen Rezai and Amirhossein Qazizadeh Hashemi, and reformist Abdolnasser Hemmati.

Khamenei hailed the election saying that "the great winner ... is the Iranian nation because it has risen up once again in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ebrahim Raisi (60), an ultraconservative cleric was declared winner of Saturday's presidential election in Iran. He will be the next president of the country. His victory was widely anticipated after many political heavyweights were barred from running.

Ebrahim Raisi (60), an ultraconservative cleric was declared winner of Saturday's presidential election in Iran. He will be the next president of the country. His victory was widely anticipated after many political heavyweights were barred from running. Raisi won 62 percent of the vote with about 90 percent of ballots counted from Friday's election, poll officials said, without releasing turnout figures, after the three other candidates had conceded defeat. "I congratulate the people on their choice," said outgoing moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who has served the maximum of two consecutive four-year terms and leaves office in August. Raisi is set to take over as Iran's president at a critical time. Iran is currently seeking to salvage its tattered nuclear deal with major powers in the world and also seeking to free itself from crippling US sanctions that have caused economic downturn in the country. Iran had struck a nuclear deal with US and other world powers but US under Donald Trump withdrew from the deal, creating uncertainty about future of the deal. After Joe Biden became US president, talks to rescue the deal started. The head of the Iranian judiciary, whose black turban signifies direct descent from Islam's Prophet Mohammed, Raisi is seen as close to the 81-year-old supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has ultimate political power in Iran. Friday's voting was extended by two hours past the original midnight deadline amid fears of a low turnout of 50 percent or less. Many voters chose to stay away after the field of some 600 hopefuls including 40 women had been winnowed down to seven candidates, all men, excluding an ex-president and a former parliament speaker. Three of the vetted candidates dropped out of the race two days before Friday's vote. Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running by the Guardian Council of clerics and jurists, said he would not vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin." Raisi's victory was confirmed Saturday when he received the congratulations of the incumbent and the three other candidates -- ultraconservatives Mohsen Rezai and Amirhossein Qazizadeh Hashemi, and reformist Abdolnasser Hemmati. Khamenei hailed the election saying that "the great winner ... is the Iranian nation because it has risen up once again in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media". (With inputs from agencies)

Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election

Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei has urged Iranians to vote in the June 18 Presidential election as candidates wrapped up campaigning. Khamenei's plea came as two candidates withdrew from the race leaving five hopefuls in the fray.

Iran Presidential Poll 2021: Two candidates exit race on last day of campaigning

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi.

"The media and the people have testified that this is a good competition," said the head of the 12-member council, Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee, a day before almost 60 million voters are asked to head to the ballots.

Kadkhodaee said that the televised debates between the seven candidates showed that the competition was serious.

The candidates were approved by the unelected body of jurists and clerics.

The vote Friday will choose a successor to Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who cannot run again now after serving two consecutive four-year terms, and who leaves office in August.

Turnout for the voting is expected to be low owing to demoralised electorate which faced years of economic crisis brought on by crippling US sanctions regime and worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic

"I left my main job because I could not pay the rent for my shop, and my (former) employees are now jobless," lamented Tehran resident Nasrollah, who said he had been a car mechanic for 47 years.&nbsp;

"I have no money. All families are now facing an economic problem. How can we vote for these people who did this to us? It's not right."&nbsp;

'No political views'

The election comes as Tehran holds renewed talks with world powers to revive a battered 2015 nuclear deal, which the United States unilaterally withdrew from three years ago under then president Donald Trump.

Ultimate power in Iran lies with the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the president has significant influence on issues from industrial policy to foreign affairs.

Many voters were dismayed however when a field of almost 600 hopefuls for the presidency was reduced to just seven candidates by the Guardian Council.

Among the prominent figures barred from running were former parliament speaker Ali Larijani, who demanded that the council "officially and publicly disclose all the reasons" for his disqualification.

Rouhani later said he had urged greater "competition" in a letter to the supreme leader, who acknowledged that some candidates had been treated "unjustly" as "they and their families were accused of false things", without giving names.

The field was further reduced Wednesday when three of the seven candidates dropped out, shortly before the election campaign ended at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) Thursday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi.

On the eve of Iran's presidential election, the candidate-vetting Guardian Council insisted that the political contest was "serious". The elections are expected to hand victory to ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi. "The media and the people have testified that this is a good competition," said the head of the 12-member council, Abbas Ali Kadkhodaee, a day before almost 60 million voters are asked to head to the ballots. Kadkhodaee said that the televised debates between the seven candidates showed that the competition was serious. The candidates were approved by the unelected body of jurists and clerics. The vote Friday will choose a successor to Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who cannot run again now after serving two consecutive four-year terms, and who leaves office in August. Turnout for the voting is expected to be low owing to demoralised electorate which faced years of economic crisis brought on by crippling US sanctions regime and worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic "I left my main job because I could not pay the rent for my shop, and my (former) employees are now jobless," lamented Tehran resident Nasrollah, who said he had been a car mechanic for 47 years. "I have no money. All families are now facing an economic problem. How can we vote for these people who did this to us? It's not right." 'No political views' The election comes as Tehran holds renewed talks with world powers to revive a battered 2015 nuclear deal, which the United States unilaterally withdrew from three years ago under then president Donald Trump. Ultimate power in Iran lies with the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but the president has significant influence on issues from industrial policy to foreign affairs. Many voters were dismayed however when a field of almost 600 hopefuls for the presidency was reduced to just seven candidates by the Guardian Council. Among the prominent figures barred from running were former parliament speaker Ali Larijani, who demanded that the council "officially and publicly disclose all the reasons" for his disqualification. Rouhani later said he had urged greater "competition" in a letter to the supreme leader, who acknowledged that some candidates had been treated "unjustly" as "they and their families were accused of false things", without giving names. The field was further reduced Wednesday when three of the seven candidates dropped out, shortly before the election campaign ended at 7:00 am (0230 GMT) Thursday. (With inputs from agencies)

Presidential vote is a 'serious' contest, says Iran

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections.

Elections in Iran is the highest manifestation of the public will in the socio-economic and political spheres and it is the most effective instrument to realise the sovereignty of Iranian people through a peaceful and participatory process.&nbsp;

Therefore, every four years, Iranians elect a new president, and members of the Parliament (Majlis), the assembly of experts, and local councils to show their responsibility and to enforce their legal rights for a better future.

Now, after 42 years since the beginning of the Islamic Revolution, on average, one election in a year has been held which indicates the relevance of democracy in the country.&nbsp;

This is of crucial importance, because Iran's history, prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had never witnessed any landmark juncture at which the Iranian people played a leading role in determining their destiny.&nbsp;

Moreover, Iran is the only country in the region which has successfully and consistently held such elections on time and without delays even during extraordinary situations such as natural disasters, pandemics and the eight-year imposed war during the past four decades.&nbsp;

The Islamic Republic of Iran, in order to fulfill the aspirations of its people and hedging against despotism and foreign interventions, has developed a unique political system which consists of two major pillars of "Islamic identity "and "republic values".&nbsp;

In such a system which is rooted in Islamic teachings, lessons learned in the course of the history and from the resistance against notorious regimes and foreign occupation, the people could freely express their views on governance and to change the incumbent leadership in line with the Islamic values and democratic merits highly recognised and endorsed by its constitutional system.

&nbsp;The important point, in terms of domestic political stability in the country is that the rotation in the government administrations and other decision-making bodies has always been through the polls and direct involvement of the Iranian citizens and interestingly, the result has always shocked the foreign observers. This shows how the will of the people is relevant in Iran's political system.&nbsp;

With Iran’s 13th presidential elections just around the corner, there are heated debates about good governance between candidates from different factions and affiliations which have been reflected during several televised debates.&nbsp;

This time, the mainstream call of candidates is focusing on the imperative of an inward-looking economy to ensure its sustained growth and development.&nbsp;

Accordingly, there is much heated debate among Iranians on how the next president would and should tackle the problems facing the country, especially at a time when the nation has been the target of economic terrorism and the toughest unjust and inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States on the Iranian people to punish them for their steadfastness on independence and the non-aligned path carved by the Islamic Revolution.

Contrary to the biased narrative on Iran's domestic dynamics and regardless of any poll results, the ongoing debate on the best direction of the economy and other internal and foreign policy related issues indicates that thanks to the large degree of democracy existing in the country, the debates are not restricted and the candidates freely question and discuss every aspect.

Now, as a result of a vibrant political system in Iran which is a source of strength and sustainability, it has been more than four decades that, the Iranian people have been standing firm in safeguarding the values and achieving the aspirations of the Islamic Revolution in the face of all the hostilities and the conspiracies orchestrated against them by those who have been bent on breaking the people’s will and bringing down the Islamic establishment.

In summary, Iran has exercised a dynamic and unique political system in more than four decades after its establishment, manifested in regular and frequent elections at an inclusive participation of its people.&nbsp;

No matter what the result would be the day after the elections, the significant outcome would be the evolving dynamism of the political system in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections.

As we get closer to Iran’s 13th presidential elections, once again Iranians with great passion and enthusiasm are going through another democratic process to determine their future after carefully assessing initiatives, pledges and programs of the seven presidential candidates who have deemed qualified to run in this substantial elections. Elections in Iran is the highest manifestation of the public will in the socio-economic and political spheres and it is the most effective instrument to realise the sovereignty of Iranian people through a peaceful and participatory process. Therefore, every four years, Iranians elect a new president, and members of the Parliament (Majlis), the assembly of experts, and local councils to show their responsibility and to enforce their legal rights for a better future. Now, after 42 years since the beginning of the Islamic Revolution, on average, one election in a year has been held which indicates the relevance of democracy in the country. This is of crucial importance, because Iran's history, prior to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, had never witnessed any landmark juncture at which the Iranian people played a leading role in determining their destiny. Moreover, Iran is the only country in the region which has successfully and consistently held such elections on time and without delays even during extraordinary situations such as natural disasters, pandemics and the eight-year imposed war during the past four decades. The Islamic Republic of Iran, in order to fulfill the aspirations of its people and hedging against despotism and foreign interventions, has developed a unique political system which consists of two major pillars of "Islamic identity "and "republic values". In such a system which is rooted in Islamic teachings, lessons learned in the course of the history and from the resistance against notorious regimes and foreign occupation, the people could freely express their views on governance and to change the incumbent leadership in line with the Islamic values and democratic merits highly recognised and endorsed by its constitutional system. The important point, in terms of domestic political stability in the country is that the rotation in the government administrations and other decision-making bodies has always been through the polls and direct involvement of the Iranian citizens and interestingly, the result has always shocked the foreign observers. This shows how the will of the people is relevant in Iran's political system. With Iran’s 13th presidential elections just around the corner, there are heated debates about good governance between candidates from different factions and affiliations which have been reflected during several televised debates. This time, the mainstream call of candidates is focusing on the imperative of an inward-looking economy to ensure its sustained growth and development. Accordingly, there is much heated debate among Iranians on how the next president would and should tackle the problems facing the country, especially at a time when the nation has been the target of economic terrorism and the toughest unjust and inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States on the Iranian people to punish them for their steadfastness on independence and the non-aligned path carved by the Islamic Revolution. Contrary to the biased narrative on Iran's domestic dynamics and regardless of any poll results, the ongoing debate on the best direction of the economy and other internal and foreign policy related issues indicates that thanks to the large degree of democracy existing in the country, the debates are not restricted and the candidates freely question and discuss every aspect. Now, as a result of a vibrant political system in Iran which is a source of strength and sustainability, it has been more than four decades that, the Iranian people have been standing firm in safeguarding the values and achieving the aspirations of the Islamic Revolution in the face of all the hostilities and the conspiracies orchestrated against them by those who have been bent on breaking the people’s will and bringing down the Islamic establishment. In summary, Iran has exercised a dynamic and unique political system in more than four decades after its establishment, manifested in regular and frequent elections at an inclusive participation of its people. No matter what the result would be the day after the elections, the significant outcome would be the evolving dynamism of the political system in the Islamic Republic of Iran. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion: Iran’s 2021 Presidential elections - dynamics and merits of a political system

The 60-year-old Raisi is widely believed to be the preferred candidate of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who considers Raisi a close confidant and possible successor.

Who is Ebrahim Raisi, the front-runner in Iran's presidential race?

Candidates in Iran's presidential election this month traded strong barbs in a debate on Saturday, accusing each other of treason or of lacking the education to run an economy devastated by three years of US&nbsp;sanctions.

While the five hardline candidates attacked the eight-year performance of outgoing pragmatist President Hassan Rouhani, the leading moderate candidate, former central bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati, blamed hardliners for heightened tensions with the West that he said had worsened Iran’s economic woes.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-ex-president-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-submits-name-for-presidential-poll-384800">Iran: Ex-president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad submits name for presidential poll</a>

In the first of three debates ahead of the June 18 vote, former Revolutionary Guards chief Mohsen Rezaee accused Hemmati of "fully complying" with US&nbsp;sanctions and said he should face treason charges.

"If I become president, I will ban Hemmati and a number of other officials of the Rouhani government from leaving the country, and I will prove in court which treacherous&nbsp;roles they played," Rezaee, an economics doctorate holder, said in the televised three-hour debate.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-judiciary-warns-presidential-candidates-against-crossing-red-lines-388468">Iran elections: Judiciary warns presidential candidates against crossing 'red lines'</a>

After Rezaee's remarks, Hemmati half-jokingly asked leading hardline candidate and judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi: "Mr Raisi, can you give me assurances that no legal action will be taken against me after this event?"

With the hardline-led election watchdog, the Guardian Council, barring leading moderate and conservative candidates, the turnout is likely to be record low in a seven-man race between hardline and somewhat less hardline candidates, and two low-profile moderates.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-calls-un-voting-rights-suspension-unacceptable-389450">Iran calls UN voting rights suspension 'unacceptable'</a>

"I watched the debate and now I am even more certain not to vote. This election is a joke," said retired teacher Fariba Semsari by phone from the northern city of Rasht.

But a Tehran-based journalist, who asked not to be named, said: "Hemmati has drawn support among some who would have otherwise not voted. Among other things, his move to have himself represented in an interview with state TV by his outspoken wife has impressed some women."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-press-voices-concern-over-presidential-poll-turnout-385439">Iran press voices concern over presidential poll turnout</a>

Hemmati accused hardliners of isolating Iran internationally and ruining its economy, large sectors of which are dominated by hardline-run conglomerates.

"You have closed off our economy and our foreign contacts...I ask you and your friends, companies and institutions to please pull out of our economy, and then Iran's economy will surely improve," said Hemmati, an economics professor.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-find-their-voices-on-clubhouse-ahead-of-poll-385289">Iranians find their voices on Clubhouse ahead of poll</a>

Mohsen Mehralizadeh, a moderate politician, said the economy could not be run by those with only traditional clerical studies, such as Raisi.

"You have only six years of classic education, and while respecting your seminary studies, I must say that one cannot manage the economy and draw up plans for the country with this much education," said Mehralizadeh, who holds a doctorate in financial management.

Raisi blasted Rouhani's government over galloping inflation and the rapid fall in the value of Iran's currency and rejected comments by Hemmati and other moderates who blame US&nbsp;sanctions for Iran's economic troubles and say without proper management the country would have been worse off.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-set-for-presidential-showdown-between-heavyweights-larijani-raisi-385281">Iran set for presidential showdown between heavyweights Larijani, Raisi</a>

"This is like a goalkeeper who lets in 17 goals... and then says without me it would have been 30 goals!" said Raisi, who holds a doctorate in Islamic law.

After the debate, cabinet spokesman Ali Rabiei asked state TV to provide an opportunity for the government to respond to "accusations and slanders" raised against it by some candidates.

The election is likely to reinforce the authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is close to hardliners, at a time when Tehran and six world powers are trying to revive their 2015 nuclear deal. Washington exited the accord three years ago and reimposed sanctions.

Candidates in Iran's presidential election this month traded strong barbs in a debate on Saturday, accusing each other of treason or of lacking the education to run an economy devastated by three years of US sanctions.

Candidates in Iran's presidential election this month traded strong barbs in a debate on Saturday, accusing each other of treason or of lacking the education to run an economy devastated by three years of US sanctions. While the five hardline candidates attacked the eight-year performance of outgoing pragmatist President Hassan Rouhani, the leading moderate candidate, former central bank chief Abdolnaser Hemmati, blamed hardliners for heightened tensions with the West that he said had worsened Iran’s economic woes. Also Read | Iran: Ex-president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad submits name for presidential poll In the first of three debates ahead of the June 18 vote, former Revolutionary Guards chief Mohsen Rezaee accused Hemmati of "fully complying" with US sanctions and said he should face treason charges. "If I become president, I will ban Hemmati and a number of other officials of the Rouhani government from leaving the country, and I will prove in court which treacherous roles they played," Rezaee, an economics doctorate holder, said in the televised three-hour debate. Also Read | Iran elections: Judiciary warns presidential candidates against crossing 'red lines' After Rezaee's remarks, Hemmati half-jokingly asked leading hardline candidate and judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi: "Mr Raisi, can you give me assurances that no legal action will be taken against me after this event?" With the hardline-led election watchdog, the Guardian Council, barring leading moderate and conservative candidates, the turnout is likely to be record low in a seven-man race between hardline and somewhat less hardline candidates, and two low-profile moderates. Also Read | Iran calls UN voting rights suspension 'unacceptable' "I watched the debate and now I am even more certain not to vote. This election is a joke," said retired teacher Fariba Semsari by phone from the northern city of Rasht. But a Tehran-based journalist, who asked not to be named, said: "Hemmati has drawn support among some who would have otherwise not voted. Among other things, his move to have himself represented in an interview with state TV by his outspoken wife has impressed some women." Also Read | Iran press voices concern over presidential poll turnout Hemmati accused hardliners of isolating Iran internationally and ruining its economy, large sectors of which are dominated by hardline-run conglomerates. "You have closed off our economy and our foreign contacts...I ask you and your friends, companies and institutions to please pull out of our economy, and then Iran's economy will surely improve," said Hemmati, an economics professor. Also Read | Iranians find their voices on Clubhouse ahead of poll Mohsen Mehralizadeh, a moderate politician, said the economy could not be run by those with only traditional clerical studies, such as Raisi. "You have only six years of classic education, and while respecting your seminary studies, I must say that one cannot manage the economy and draw up plans for the country with this much education," said Mehralizadeh, who holds a doctorate in financial management. Raisi blasted Rouhani's government over galloping inflation and the rapid fall in the value of Iran's currency and rejected comments by Hemmati and other moderates who blame US sanctions for Iran's economic troubles and say without proper management the country would have been worse off. Also Read | Iran set for presidential showdown between heavyweights Larijani, Raisi "This is like a goalkeeper who lets in 17 goals... and then says without me it would have been 30 goals!" said Raisi, who holds a doctorate in Islamic law. After the debate, cabinet spokesman Ali Rabiei asked state TV to provide an opportunity for the government to respond to "accusations and slanders" raised against it by some candidates. The election is likely to reinforce the authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is close to hardliners, at a time when Tehran and six world powers are trying to revive their 2015 nuclear deal. Washington exited the accord three years ago and reimposed sanctions.

Iran presidential candidates trade barbs in TV debate

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18.

"Candidates should not cross the system's red lines in their campaigns and speeches," said Tehran Attorney General Ali Alqassi-Mehr, quoted by Mizan Online, the judiciary's official news agency.

Wrongdoers will be "confronted firmly", he said, and warned in particular against any attacks on the "reputation" of the judiciary.

Several issues are considered "red lines" in Iran, including questioning the doctrine of Velayat-e faqih (the guardianship of the jurist) which establishes religious authority over politics.

The head of the judiciary, ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi, is widely considered the favourite candidate in the race to the presidency.

Raisi won 38 percent of the vote in the 2017 presidential election but was defeated by Rouhani.

Guardian Council, the body which vets the candidates has approved seven mainly ultraconservative candidates from 600 hopefuls.

Some disqualifications carried out by the Guardian Council appeared to have cleared the way for Raisi. He faces four lesser known candidates from own camp and two reformistst who don't have a strong base.

The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday said candidates should focus on "youth unemployment" and economic woes of "the disadvantaged class," two themes prominently highlighted in Raisi's campaign in 2017 and again this year.

Iranian authorities, including the supreme leader, have in recent months called for high turnout, while the limited polls available have pointed to a potential record abstention.

Meanwhile, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, who is running in the presidential election in June, the Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.

Hemmati in a Saturday night meeting on the Clubhouse social media app said Rouhani "Told me that if you stand in the election, you cannot remain the central bank chief because it affects monetary and exchange rate policies".

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18.

A senior official of Iran's judiciary on Sunday warned candidates running in the presidential election against crossing "red lines" of the Islamic republic. Iranians will select a successor to current President Hassan Rouhani on June 18. "Candidates should not cross the system's red lines in their campaigns and speeches," said Tehran Attorney General Ali Alqassi-Mehr, quoted by Mizan Online, the judiciary's official news agency. Wrongdoers will be "confronted firmly", he said, and warned in particular against any attacks on the "reputation" of the judiciary. Several issues are considered "red lines" in Iran, including questioning the doctrine of Velayat-e faqih (the guardianship of the jurist) which establishes religious authority over politics. The head of the judiciary, ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi, is widely considered the favourite candidate in the race to the presidency. Raisi won 38 percent of the vote in the 2017 presidential election but was defeated by Rouhani. Guardian Council, the body which vets the candidates has approved seven mainly ultraconservative candidates from 600 hopefuls. Some disqualifications carried out by the Guardian Council appeared to have cleared the way for Raisi. He faces four lesser known candidates from own camp and two reformistst who don't have a strong base. The Islamic republic's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday said candidates should focus on "youth unemployment" and economic woes of "the disadvantaged class," two themes prominently highlighted in Raisi's campaign in 2017 and again this year. Iranian authorities, including the supreme leader, have in recent months called for high turnout, while the limited polls available have pointed to a potential record abstention. Meanwhile, Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has dismissed central bank governor Abdolnaser Hemmati, who is running in the presidential election in June, the Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday. Hemmati in a Saturday night meeting on the Clubhouse social media app said Rouhani "Told me that if you stand in the election, you cannot remain the central bank chief because it affects monetary and exchange rate policies". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran elections: Judiciary warns presidential candidates against crossing 'red lines'

Former Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Wednesday submitted application for his candidacy to succeed incumbent President Hassan Rouhani. Elections are due in Iran next month. The 64-year-old populist was applauded by several dozen supporters as he arrived at the interior ministry to submit his application.

"Millions of people across the country have invited me to stand for election, and even ordered me to come here to register, placing a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," Ahmadinejad said.

The build-up to June 18 polls comes as Iran and world powers wrangle over reviving a 2015 nuclear accord, from which the US withdrew unilaterally in 2018, reimposing crippling sanctions.&nbsp;

Hopefuls can register their names by Saturday (May 15). The names will be vetted by conservative-dominated Guardian Council. A list of approved candidates will be published by May 27.The campaign will begin after that.

As per Iranian media, Ahmadinejad's chances of being approved are close to zero.

Ahmadinejad has said that if his candidacy is not approved, he will "not participate" in the election, either by backing a candidate or voting.

Ahmadinejad claimed, as he has often done in recent years, that the Iranian people have lost confidence in the country's authorities.

He added that he considered the upcoming election "perhaps the last chance" to save the Islamic republic in the face of "very sensitive" challenges, both domestic and international.

Fiery rhetoric

Iran's president from 2005 to 2013, Ahmadinejad had to stand down at the end of two consecutive terms as per the constitution. His successor Rouhani will face the same obligation in June.

Ahmadinejad's presidency was marked by fiery rhetoric against Israel and deep tensions with the West, notably over Iran's nuclear programme which he enthusiastically championed.

Reinforced by UN Security Council sanctions, punitive measures cost Iran's economy billions in vital oil revenues and foreign investment, leaving the country struggling with raging inflation, high unemployment and a depreciated currency.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Wednesday submitted application for his candidacy to succeed incumbent President Hassan Rouhani. Elections are due in Iran next month.

Former Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Wednesday submitted application for his candidacy to succeed incumbent President Hassan Rouhani. Elections are due in Iran next month. The 64-year-old populist was applauded by several dozen supporters as he arrived at the interior ministry to submit his application. "Millions of people across the country have invited me to stand for election, and even ordered me to come here to register, placing a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," Ahmadinejad said. The build-up to June 18 polls comes as Iran and world powers wrangle over reviving a 2015 nuclear accord, from which the US withdrew unilaterally in 2018, reimposing crippling sanctions. Hopefuls can register their names by Saturday (May 15). The names will be vetted by conservative-dominated Guardian Council. A list of approved candidates will be published by May 27.The campaign will begin after that. As per Iranian media, Ahmadinejad's chances of being approved are close to zero. Ahmadinejad has said that if his candidacy is not approved, he will "not participate" in the election, either by backing a candidate or voting. Ahmadinejad claimed, as he has often done in recent years, that the Iranian people have lost confidence in the country's authorities. He added that he considered the upcoming election "perhaps the last chance" to save the Islamic republic in the face of "very sensitive" challenges, both domestic and international. Fiery rhetoric Iran's president from 2005 to 2013, Ahmadinejad had to stand down at the end of two consecutive terms as per the constitution. His successor Rouhani will face the same obligation in June. Ahmadinejad's presidency was marked by fiery rhetoric against Israel and deep tensions with the West, notably over Iran's nuclear programme which he enthusiastically championed. Reinforced by UN Security Council sanctions, punitive measures cost Iran's economy billions in vital oil revenues and foreign investment, leaving the country struggling with raging inflation, high unemployment and a depreciated currency. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran: Ex-president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad submits name for presidential poll

The United States has sanctioned five Iranian groups that it says attempted to interfere in the upcoming presidential election between President Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: US punishes Iran for 'election interference'

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good.

Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout and the final result of the February&nbsp;21 election for the 290-seat parliament — a litmus test of the popularity of the establishment.

Some unconfirmed reports said the turnout was around 45%. If confirmed, it would be the lowest turnout since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution.

"This negative propaganda about the virus began a couple of months ago and grew larger ahead of the election," said Khamenei, according to his official website Khamenei.ir.

"Their media did not miss the tiniest opportunity for dissuading Iranian voters and resorting to the excuse of disease and the virus."

Iran, which confirmed its first case of the new coronavirus two days before the polls, has announced 28 cases of the virus in four different cities, including Tehran. With seven deaths, Iran has the highest death toll from the new coronavirus outside of China, the homeland of the outbreak.

The United States’ 2018 withdrawal from Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers, and its reimposition of sanctions, have hit Iran’s economy hard.

The country's clerical rulers, who are under intense U.S. pressure, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, which was damaged after nationwide protests in November.

The demonstrations were met with a violent crackdown that deepened resentment over economic hardship and corruption. Khamenei on Friday urged Iranians to vote, saying that voting was "a religious duty".

The hardline Guardian Council, which must approve candidates, removed thousands of moderates and leading conservatives from the race by barring about 6,850 hopefuls from in favour of hardliners from among 14,000 applicants.

Some early results announced by the interior ministry indicated that hardline loyalists close to Khamenei were set to gain a majority in the parliament.

"Our people's participation in Friday's election was good," said Khamenei. Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012.

The vote will have no major influence on foreign affairs or Iran's nuclear policy, which are determined by Khamenei. But it might bolster hardliners in the 2021 contest for president and toughen Tehran’s foreign policy.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Sunday Iran's enemies tried to put people off voting in Friday's parliamentary election by exaggerating the threat of the new coronavirus but that participation had been good. Iranian authorities have yet to announce the turnout and the final result of the February 21 election for the 290-seat parliament — a litmus test of the popularity of the establishment. Some unconfirmed reports said the turnout was around 45%. If confirmed, it would be the lowest turnout since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution. "This negative propaganda about the virus began a couple of months ago and grew larger ahead of the election," said Khamenei, according to his official website Khamenei.ir. "Their media did not miss the tiniest opportunity for dissuading Iranian voters and resorting to the excuse of disease and the virus." Iran, which confirmed its first case of the new coronavirus two days before the polls, has announced 28 cases of the virus in four different cities, including Tehran. With seven deaths, Iran has the highest death toll from the new coronavirus outside of China, the homeland of the outbreak. The United States’ 2018 withdrawal from Iran’s nuclear deal with world powers, and its reimposition of sanctions, have hit Iran’s economy hard. The country's clerical rulers, who are under intense U.S. pressure, need a high turnout to boost their legitimacy, which was damaged after nationwide protests in November. The demonstrations were met with a violent crackdown that deepened resentment over economic hardship and corruption. Khamenei on Friday urged Iranians to vote, saying that voting was "a religious duty". The hardline Guardian Council, which must approve candidates, removed thousands of moderates and leading conservatives from the race by barring about 6,850 hopefuls from in favour of hardliners from among 14,000 applicants. Some early results announced by the interior ministry indicated that hardline loyalists close to Khamenei were set to gain a majority in the parliament. "Our people's participation in Friday's election was good," said Khamenei. Turnout was 62% in the 2016 parliamentary vote and 66% of people voted in 2012. The vote will have no major influence on foreign affairs or Iran's nuclear policy, which are determined by Khamenei. But it might bolster hardliners in the 2021 contest for president and toughen Tehran’s foreign policy.

Iran's leader says enemies tried to use coronavirus to impact vote

Iran went to the polls Friday for a general election that conservatives are expected to dominate amid voter apathy after an economic slump, multiple crises and the disqualification of thousands of candidates.

The 11th parliamentary election since the 1979 Islamic Revolution comes after steeply escalating tensions between Iran and the United States and the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner by Iranian air defences that sparked anti-government protests.

As he cast the first ballot in the election, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged all Iranians to take part, saying that doing so would "guarantee the country's national interests".

Voters formed long queues at polling stations in south Tehran, where conservatives have a solid support base, but far fewer were seen waiting to vote in upmarket northern neighbourhoods.

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One official accused Iran's enemies of overplaying an outbreak of the new coronavirus -- which authorities say has killed four people in the Islamic republic this week -- in a bid to harm the credibility of the election.

"The counter-revolutionaries' latest trick was to exaggerate the coronavirus news by saying that finger ink had been infected," Tehran election committee chief Shokrollah Hassanbeygi said, quoted by semi-official news agency ISNA.

In a bid to allay fears over the spread of the coronavirus, the use of ink-staining to stop people voting multiple times was made optional.

Experts predict a low turnout that they say will serve the conservatives at the expense of President Hassan Rouhani, who was re-elected in 2017 promising more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West.

'Useless'

Iran has been in deep recession since US President Donald Trump reimposed sanctions after unilaterally pulling out of a landmark nuclear deal in 2018.

"Our elections are useless," said Amir Mohtasham, who is 38 and jobless.

"Even the current parliament has 90 sitting MPs who are under investigation for financial corruption."

After seven hours of voting, more than 11 million of the 58 million people eligible to vote had done so, the interior ministry said.

Around half of the 16,033 hopefuls are contesting the 290 seats up for grabs across 31 provinces after the Guardian Council barred thousands of would-be candidates, mostly moderates and reformists.

Outgoing lawmaker Elyas Hazrati said he voted despite being disqualified.

"The Guardian Council said I don't accept Islam," he said.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the US slapped sanctions on five officials from the Council, including Ahmad Jannati, a powerful cleric.

Jannati laughed off the sanctions.

"I wonder, what are we going to do about all that money we have in American accounts?" the 92-year-old was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency after voting.

"Now we can't even go there for Christmas anymore!"

Rouhani under fire

The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to turn out, down from an average of 60.5 per cent at the past 10 elections.

Many voters have voiced disillusionment.

Real estate worker Alireza Hashemi, 25, criticised Rouhani's government.

"After we elected Rouhani everything collapsed. He signed a very bad (nuclear) deal and looked to the West without any real guarantees," he told AFP.

"Rouhani is very weak. He just looks to the West. If he considered his people's interests this would not have happened."

As he voted, the beleaguered president sought to put a positive spin on the election.

"We are very happy that another glorious day is being added to the history of our country and revolution," Rouhani said.

'Only a formality'

In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown.

Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US assassinated prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3.

Millions of people turned out to mourn his "martyrdom", but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it had on January 8 accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner, killing 176 people.

The authorities denied for days that Iran was to blame, before owning up to a jittery reaction by a missile operator.

The disaster unfolded as Iran's defences were on high alert for US retaliation hours after it carried out missile strikes on American troops in Iraq in response to Soleimani's killing.

Voting for the parliament, or Majles, lasts 10 hours but can be extended. Final results are not expected before Sunday.

Apart from the parliament, voters will also choose replacements for deceased members of the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong clerical body that appoints and monitors the supreme leader.

Iran went to the polls Friday for a general election that conservatives are expected to dominate amid voter apathy after an economic slump, multiple crises and the disqualification of thousands of candidates.

Iran went to the polls Friday for a general election that conservatives are expected to dominate amid voter apathy after an economic slump, multiple crises and the disqualification of thousands of candidates. The 11th parliamentary election since the 1979 Islamic Revolution comes after steeply escalating tensions between Iran and the United States and the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner by Iranian air defences that sparked anti-government protests. As he cast the first ballot in the election, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged all Iranians to take part, saying that doing so would "guarantee the country's national interests". Voters formed long queues at polling stations in south Tehran, where conservatives have a solid support base, but far fewer were seen waiting to vote in upmarket northern neighbourhoods. × One official accused Iran's enemies of overplaying an outbreak of the new coronavirus -- which authorities say has killed four people in the Islamic republic this week -- in a bid to harm the credibility of the election. "The counter-revolutionaries' latest trick was to exaggerate the coronavirus news by saying that finger ink had been infected," Tehran election committee chief Shokrollah Hassanbeygi said, quoted by semi-official news agency ISNA. In a bid to allay fears over the spread of the coronavirus, the use of ink-staining to stop people voting multiple times was made optional. Experts predict a low turnout that they say will serve the conservatives at the expense of President Hassan Rouhani, who was re-elected in 2017 promising more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West. 'Useless' Iran has been in deep recession since US President Donald Trump reimposed sanctions after unilaterally pulling out of a landmark nuclear deal in 2018. "Our elections are useless," said Amir Mohtasham, who is 38 and jobless. "Even the current parliament has 90 sitting MPs who are under investigation for financial corruption." After seven hours of voting, more than 11 million of the 58 million people eligible to vote had done so, the interior ministry said. Around half of the 16,033 hopefuls are contesting the 290 seats up for grabs across 31 provinces after the Guardian Council barred thousands of would-be candidates, mostly moderates and reformists. Outgoing lawmaker Elyas Hazrati said he voted despite being disqualified. "The Guardian Council said I don't accept Islam," he said. On Thursday, the US slapped sanctions on five officials from the Council, including Ahmad Jannati, a powerful cleric. Jannati laughed off the sanctions. "I wonder, what are we going to do about all that money we have in American accounts?" the 92-year-old was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency after voting. "Now we can't even go there for Christmas anymore!" Rouhani under fire The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to turn out, down from an average of 60.5 per cent at the past 10 elections. Many voters have voiced disillusionment. Real estate worker Alireza Hashemi, 25, criticised Rouhani's government. "After we elected Rouhani everything collapsed. He signed a very bad (nuclear) deal and looked to the West without any real guarantees," he told AFP. "Rouhani is very weak. He just looks to the West. If he considered his people's interests this would not have happened." As he voted, the beleaguered president sought to put a positive spin on the election. "We are very happy that another glorious day is being added to the history of our country and revolution," Rouhani said. 'Only a formality' In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown. Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US assassinated prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3. Millions of people turned out to mourn his "martyrdom", but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it had on January 8 accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner, killing 176 people. The authorities denied for days that Iran was to blame, before owning up to a jittery reaction by a missile operator. The disaster unfolded as Iran's defences were on high alert for US retaliation hours after it carried out missile strikes on American troops in Iraq in response to Soleimani's killing. Voting for the parliament, or Majles, lasts 10 hours but can be extended. Final results are not expected before Sunday. Apart from the parliament, voters will also choose replacements for deceased members of the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong clerical body that appoints and monitors the supreme leader.

Conservatives seen tightening grip as Iran votes for parliament

Having gone through a formal qualification process by Iran’s Guardian Council, a total of 7,148 candidates, including dozens of Iranians from the religious minorities, are running for the parliament. There are 290 seats in the parliament up for grabs.

Iran's Parliamentary Election first result comes in

After multiple extensions and delays polls in Iran's eleventh parliamentary election came to an end, news agency AFP reported quoting news agencies Tasnim and Fars.

After multiple extensions and delays polls in Iran's eleventh parliamentary election came to an end, news agency AFP reported quoting news agencies Tasnim and Fars. The crucial polls come at a time when Iran is tackling escalating tensions with the US and the outbreak of the coronavirus with at least four deaths. Initial results are expected later today. Hardliners loyal to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are likely to sweep a parliamentary election on Friday that will cement their grip on power as the country faces mounting US pressure over its nuclear programme and growing discontent at home, the report added. In order to allow a maximum number of people to cast their ballots, the polling was extended at least five times and finally closed at 2030 GMT. The vote will have no influence on Iran's foreign policy which is decided by the supreme leader but it might bolster hardliners in the 2021 contest for president and toughen Tehran's foreign policy. Iranian authorities earlier forecast a turnout of about 50%, compared to 62% and 66% respectively in the 2016 and 2012 votes, the report said. (With inputs from agencies)

After multiple extensions, polls close in Iran general elections

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-defends-barring-of-candidates-as-campaign-ends-281826">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends</a>

The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/us-pullout-from-nuclear-deal-makes-iran-elections-even-more-crucial-281859">Khamenei</a> was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and &nbsp;"guarantee the country's national interests".

Watch Video:

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It is the eleventh parliamentary election in the country since 1979 taking place this time under US sanctions and under the cloud of former Quad chief Sulemani's death which created widespread uproar in the country after the Iran general was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq.

Public anger aimed at the government last month as Iran's army brought down a Ukrainian airliner killing all 176 people on board on the same day the US conducted drone strikes against Sulemani.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-to-vote-in-crucial-parliamentary-election-many-see-as-lost-cause-281844">In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause'</a>

Experts feel the Conservatives may win ousting Rouhani as the country battles high inflation and economic downturn amid US sanctions. In the past ten elections, Iran has averaged 60.5 per cent turnout.

The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots.

At least 58 million people are eligible to vote with 16,033 candidates contesting for 290 seats in 31 provinces.

Voting for the Majles, Iran's parliament lasts for at least ten hours or more with final results expected by Sunday.

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance. Also Read: Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and "guarantee the country's national interests".

Polling booths opened in Iran on Thursday with President Hassan Rouhani's fate in the balance. Also Read: Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends The country's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was one of the early voters while calling people to take part in the election "as soon as possible" and "guarantee the country's national interests". Watch Video: It is the eleventh parliamentary election in the country since 1979 taking place this time under US sanctions and under the cloud of former Quad chief Sulemani's death which created widespread uproar in the country after the Iran general was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq. Public anger aimed at the government last month as Iran's army brought down a Ukrainian airliner killing all 176 people on board on the same day the US conducted drone strikes against Sulemani. In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause' Experts feel the Conservatives may win ousting Rouhani as the country battles high inflation and economic downturn amid US sanctions. In the past ten elections, Iran has averaged 60.5 per cent turnout. The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 per cent of registered voters to cast ballots. At least 58 million people are eligible to vote with 16,033 candidates contesting for 290 seats in 31 provinces. Voting for the Majles, Iran's parliament lasts for at least ten hours or more with final results expected by Sunday.

Voting begins in Iran's parliamentary elections

Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause'

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Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases As the death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 2,233 on Friday, South Korea confirmed 52 more cases of the virus taking the overall figure to 156 in the country.

Good morning! Here’s what you need to know to start your day with WION’s daily news brief. Death toll in China's coronavirus rise; South Korea confirms more cases As the death toll in China's coronavirus rose to 2,233 on Friday, South Korea confirmed 52 more cases of the virus taking the overall figure to 156 in the country. OPINION| US pullout from nuclear deal makes Iran elections even more crucial Iran elections come at a time when the Islamic Republic is most vulnerable, both from the inside and from the outside. American sanctions have crippled the economy and public anger against the regime has raged on unabated. Barcelona use La Liga rule to sign Martin Braithwaite Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Danish forward Martin Braithwaite from Leganes after capitalising on a curious La Liga rule to ease their shortage of options upfront. Tate Donovan to star with Melissa Leo in 'Blood Relative' Fox's 'Blood Relative' has a male lead to its project and its Tate Donovan opposite Melissa Leo. 'Blood Relative' is a crime drama about genetic genealogist Louise Kelly (Leo) and the cases she helps law enforcement solve. WATCH| Gravitas: A wall that Donald Trump didn't ask for ×

Morning News Brief: Coronavirus death toll rises, Iran elections and more!

The election comes at a time of growing economic hardship for many in Iran. U.S. sanctions have strangled Iran’s ability to sell its oil abroad, forcing its economy into recession.

WION Dispatch: Iran Elections | 7,148 candidates in the poll race

Iranians are voting in their country's eleventh parliamentary election, seen as a test for the popularity of President Hassan Rouhani's reformist-moderate camp.

Polls open across Iran

Iran went to the polls Friday for a general election that conservatives are expected to dominate amid voter apathy after an economic slump, multiple crises and the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/voting-begins-in-irans-parliamentary-elections-281931"> disqualification of thousands of candidates.</a>

The 11th parliamentary election since the 1979 Islamic Revolution comes after steeply escalating tensions between Iran and the United States and the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner by Iranian air defences that sparked anti-government protests.

As he cast the first ballot in the election, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged all Iranians to take part, saying that doing so would "guarantee the country's national interests".

Voters formed long queues at polling stations in south Tehran, where conservatives have a solid support base, but far fewer were seen waiting to vote in upmarket northern neighbourhoods.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-defends-barring-of-candidates-as-campaign-ends-281826">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends</a>

One official accused Iran's enemies of overplaying an outbreak of the new coronavirus -- which has killed four people in the Islamic republic this week -- in a bid to harm the credibility of the election.

"The counter-revolutionaries' latest trick was to exaggerate the coronavirus news by saying that finger ink had been infected," Tehran election committee chief Shokrollah Hassanbeygi said, quoted by semi-official news agency ISNA.

In a bid to allay fears over the spread of the coronavirus, the use of ink-staining to stop people voting multiple times was made optional.

Watch: Voting begins for Iran's parliamentary polls, 7,148 candidates in the race

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Experts predict a low turnout that they say will serve the conservatives at the expense of President Hassan Rouhani, who was re-elected in 2017 promising more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West.

'Useless'

Iran has been in deep recession since US President Donald Trump reimposed sanctions after unilaterally pulling out of a landmark nuclear deal in 2018.

"Our elections are useless," said Amir Mohtasham, who is 38 and jobless.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-to-vote-in-crucial-parliamentary-election-many-see-as-lost-cause-281844">In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause'</a>

"Even the current parliament has 90 sitting MPs who are under investigation for financial corruption."

After four hours of voting, more than 7.5 million of the 58 million people eligible to vote had done so, the interior ministry said.

Around half of the 16,033 hopefuls are contesting the 290 seats up for grabs across 31 provinces after the Guardian Council barred thousands of would-be candidates, mostly moderates and reformists.

Outgoing lawmaker Elyas Hazrati said he voted despite being disqualified.

"The Guardian Council said I don't accept Islam," he said.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the US slapped sanctions on five officials from the Council, including Ahmad Jannati, a powerful cleric.

Jannati laughed off the sanctions.

"I wonder, what are we going to do about all that money we have in American accounts?" the 92-year-old was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency after voting.

"Now we can't even go there for Christmas anymore!"

Rouhani under fire

The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 percent of registered voters to turn out, down from an average of 60.5 percent at the past 10 elections.

Many voters have voiced disillusionment, however.

Real estate worker Alireza Hashemi, 25, criticised Rouhani's government.

"After we elected Rouhani everything collapsed. He signed a very bad (nuclear) deal and looked to the West without any real guarantees," he told AFP.

"Rouhani is very weak. He just looks to the West. If he considered his people's interests this would not have happened."

As he voted, the beleaguered president sought to put a positive spin on the election.

"We are very happy that another glorious day is being added to the history of our country and revolution," Rouhani said.

'Only a formality'

In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown.

Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US assassinated prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3.

Millions of people turned out to mourn his "martyrdom", but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it had accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner on January 8, killing 176 people.

The authorities denied for days that Iran was to blame, before owning up to a jittery reaction by a missile operator.

The disaster unfolded as Iran's defences were on high alert for US retaliation hours after it carried out missile strikes on American troops in Iraq in response to Soleimani's killing.

Voting for the parliament, or Majles, lasts 10 hours but can be extended. Final results are not expected before Sunday.

Apart from the parliament, voters will also choose replacements for deceased members of the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong clerical body that appoints and monitors the supreme leader.

Iran went to the polls Friday for a general election that conservatives are expected to dominate amid voter apathy after an economic slump, multiple crises and the disqualification of thousands of candidates. The 11th parliamentary election since the 1979 Islamic Revolution comes after steeply escalating tensions between Iran and the United States and the accidental downing of a Ukrainian airliner by Iranian air defences that sparked anti-government protests. As he cast the first ballot in the election, supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged all Iranians to take part, saying that doing so would "guarantee the country's national interests". Voters formed long queues at polling stations in south Tehran, where conservatives have a solid support base, but far fewer were seen waiting to vote in upmarket northern neighbourhoods. Also Read: Iran defends barring of candidates as campaign ends One official accused Iran's enemies of overplaying an outbreak of the new coronavirus -- which has killed four people in the Islamic republic this week -- in a bid to harm the credibility of the election. "The counter-revolutionaries' latest trick was to exaggerate the coronavirus news by saying that finger ink had been infected," Tehran election committee chief Shokrollah Hassanbeygi said, quoted by semi-official news agency ISNA. In a bid to allay fears over the spread of the coronavirus, the use of ink-staining to stop people voting multiple times was made optional. Watch: Voting begins for Iran's parliamentary polls, 7,148 candidates in the race × Experts predict a low turnout that they say will serve the conservatives at the expense of President Hassan Rouhani, who was re-elected in 2017 promising more freedoms and the benefits of engagement with the West. 'Useless' Iran has been in deep recession since US President Donald Trump reimposed sanctions after unilaterally pulling out of a landmark nuclear deal in 2018. "Our elections are useless," said Amir Mohtasham, who is 38 and jobless. In Pics: Iran to vote in crucial parliamentary election, many see as 'lost cause' "Even the current parliament has 90 sitting MPs who are under investigation for financial corruption." After four hours of voting, more than 7.5 million of the 58 million people eligible to vote had done so, the interior ministry said. Around half of the 16,033 hopefuls are contesting the 290 seats up for grabs across 31 provinces after the Guardian Council barred thousands of would-be candidates, mostly moderates and reformists. Outgoing lawmaker Elyas Hazrati said he voted despite being disqualified. "The Guardian Council said I don't accept Islam," he said. On Thursday, the US slapped sanctions on five officials from the Council, including Ahmad Jannati, a powerful cleric. Jannati laughed off the sanctions. "I wonder, what are we going to do about all that money we have in American accounts?" the 92-year-old was quoted as saying by Tasnim news agency after voting. "Now we can't even go there for Christmas anymore!" Rouhani under fire The Guardian Council said it expected at least 50 percent of registered voters to turn out, down from an average of 60.5 percent at the past 10 elections. Many voters have voiced disillusionment, however. Real estate worker Alireza Hashemi, 25, criticised Rouhani's government. "After we elected Rouhani everything collapsed. He signed a very bad (nuclear) deal and looked to the West without any real guarantees," he told AFP. "Rouhani is very weak. He just looks to the West. If he considered his people's interests this would not have happened." As he voted, the beleaguered president sought to put a positive spin on the election. "We are very happy that another glorious day is being added to the history of our country and revolution," Rouhani said. 'Only a formality' In November, demonstrations over petrol price hikes spread across Iran and turned violent before being crushed in a deadly crackdown. Tehran and Washington have nearly gone to war twice in the past seven months, most recently after the US assassinated prominent Iranian general Qasem Soleimani on January 3. Millions of people turned out to mourn his "martyrdom", but that unity suffered a blow after Iran admitted it had accidentally shot down a Ukrainian airliner on January 8, killing 176 people. The authorities denied for days that Iran was to blame, before owning up to a jittery reaction by a missile operator. The disaster unfolded as Iran's defences were on high alert for US retaliation hours after it carried out missile strikes on American troops in Iraq in response to Soleimani's killing. Voting for the parliament, or Majles, lasts 10 hours but can be extended. Final results are not expected before Sunday. Apart from the parliament, voters will also choose replacements for deceased members of the Assembly of Experts, an 88-strong clerical body that appoints and monitors the supreme leader.

Iran votes in general election marred by disqualifications

Iranian parliamentary election begins, hardliners set to dominate

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