Iran is set to hold a runoff election on July 5 after no candidate won the required majority in the first round of voting.
The race is between a relatively moderate lawmaker, Massoud Pezeshkian, and hardline former IRGC officer, Said Jalili, with Pezeshkian coming out on top with more than 10 million votes, compared to Jalili's 9.4 million.
The election took place after President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash. Despite the runoff, supreme power in Iran remains in the hands of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and no major policy changes are expected regarding Iran's nuclear program or regional militias. However, the president controls the day-to-day running of the government and can influence policy direction.
Historically low voter turnout
The election's historically low turnout of about 40 percent reflected public frustration with economic problems and political restrictions. It came at a time of rising regional tensions, including the conflict between Israel, Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as growing Western pressure over Iran's nuclear activities.
Pezeshkian, supported by marginalized reformers, has stressed respect for hijab law while denouncing its overreach. Her stance contrasts with Jalili's hardline views, particularly on Iran's nuclear negotiations. Jalili, known for his uncompromising stance, could pursue a more confrontational foreign policy if elected.
Both candidates are seeking to mobilize voters for the runoff election, where low turnout is seen as a protest against the current political system, leading many voters to cancel their votes. Analysts say a win for Pezeshkian could lead to better ties with the West and more economic and social reforms, while a win for Jalili could lead to tougher policies.
The outcome of this election is crucial because the next president could play a key role in succeeding the 85-year-old Ayatollah Khamenei. With ongoing regional conflicts and growing domestic discontent, the runoff election will be crucial for Iran's future direction.
