World
A reformist vs ultraconservative showdown in Iranian presidential runoff
Get the latest updates on the intense reformist vs ultraconservative battle in the Iranian presidential runoff. Stay informed on the high-stakes political showdown.
A reformist and an ultraconservative are set to compete in a runoff election on Friday after neither candidate secured the majority of votes needed to win the presidency in the first round. The initial phase was marked by historically low voter turnout and widespread dissatisfaction with the political establishment.
The runoff on July 5, held a year earlier due to the tragic death of former President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter accident, will determine whether reform candidate Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian or hard-liner Saeed Jalili will lead a country grappling with economic challenges, internal unrest, and foreign policy complexities.
In the initial round, 60% of eligible voters abstained or cast blank votes in protest against what they perceive as an ineffective ruling elite incapable of addressing Iran’s domestic and international issues. Dr. Pezeshkian secured over 10.4 million votes (42.4%), while Saeed Jalili received 9.47 million (38.6%).
Although Dr. Pezeshkian led in the first round, the outcome of the runoff remains uncertain. The third-place finisher, Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf, who garnered 13.8% of the initial votes, endorsed Mr. Jalili. However, previous surveys indicated that many of Mr. Ghalibaf’s supporters may not back Mr. Jalili.
Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian
Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, the reformist contender, has signaled a willingness to engage in nuclear discussions with Western nations.