Iran votes for new President amid succession Debate.
Iran voted for a new President on Friday with hardliners dominating the field after the death of Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month.
The election takes place as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 85, grapples with succession. The next President is poised to play a key role in the crucial process.
Six candidates, including former parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and ex-nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, contested after being approved by the Guardian Council.
Moderate politician Massoud Pezeshkian is the sole reformist face, backed by the politically marginalized camp. Khamenei has not endorsed anyone publicly.
However, his adviser urged electors to choose one with “no conflicting views” with the Supreme Leader. Khamenei also called for a high turnout to counter Iran’s critics.
The election happens amid rising regional tensions over Israel-Palestine conflict, Western pressure over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and domestic anger over crises.
Though the President wields international clout, real authority rests with Khamenei. Analysts say an ally who guarantees succession stability could aid the establishment.
Dissidents slammed the exercise as a “sham”, jailed activist Narges Mohammadi urging a boycott. But prominent reformists differ, cautioning low turnout will empower hardliners.
If no candidate secures over 50% votes, a run-off between the top-2 will be held to elect Raisi’s successor and shape Iran’s future course.
