Iran Prepares for Presidential Election Amid Turmoil>

In Iran, regime-approved candidates are set to run for president on Friday following the death of hardliner Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash last month. The election occurs amid economic sanctions, civil unrest, and regional turmoil linked to Israel’s war in Gaza. Six candidates were approved by the Guardian Council, with Massoud Pezeshkian being the only nominal reformer. The other candidates are conservatives who maintain strict social policies.
Raisi and seven others, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, died in a helicopter crash near Azerbaijan, which preliminary investigations attribute to poor weather rather than sabotage. The U.S. has denied responsibility, despite claims linking the crash to sanctions.
The election’s outcome could influence the selection of a successor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, 85. The new president will face a young, discontented population, with protests over human rights ongoing. Voter turnout reflects a divided society, with some disillusioned and others staunchly supportive of the regime. Results are expected by June 30, with a potential run-off on July 5 if no candidate secures a majority.