In the upcoming presidential election in Iran, a moderate politician, Massoud Pezeshkian, will face off against the Supreme Leader’s protégé, Saeed Jalili, in a run-off election on 5 July. The interior ministry announced that no candidate received enough votes in the first round, leading to this tight race between Pezeshkian and Jalili.
While the ultimate power lies with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the president plays a crucial role in shaping Iran’s day-to-day policies. The election has been closely watched due to escalating tensions in the region and Western pressure on Iran’s nuclear program.
If Pezeshkian wins, analysts predict a possible easing of tensions with the West, economic reforms, and more social liberalization in Iran. On the other hand, Jalili’s victory could signal a shift towards a more antagonistic foreign policy stance.
Ultimately, the outcome of the election will influence Iran’s future direction and its relations with the international community. Stay tuned for updates as the run-off election approaches.