Iranians have re-appeared at the ballots for a presidential run-off. This run-off sets centrist Masoud Pezeshkian against hardliner Saeed Jalili in the competition to succeed the late Ebrahim Raisi, who passed away in a helicopter accident in May.

The second round took place on Friday since neither candidate secured a clear majority on June 28. Pezeshkian received approximately 42.5 percent of the votes, while Jalili obtained around 38.7 percent.

The election occurs amidst escalated regional tensions concerning Israel's Gaza conflict, Iran's nuclear program dispute with the West, economic challenges due to sanctions, and disillusionment following deadly protests in 2022-2023.

Low turnout

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds significant state influence, cast his vote upon the opening of the polling stations at 8am. He encouraged people to participate, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right candidate.

Both candidates, Pezeshkian and Jalili, voted in Tehran. Pezeshkian voted in a high school in western Tehran accompanied by supporters, including former foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Meanwhile, Jalili voted in the grand mosque in Qarchak, a traditional and religious area southeast of the capital.

In the previous round in June, only 40 percent of eligible voters participated – the lowest turnout since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Despite polls suggesting Pezeshkian's potential victory, concerns arise about the turnout and potential surprises on election day.

Before the results were officially announced, Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad warned against premature and baseless result declarations by political figures and media outlets.

The election, initially scheduled for 2025, was expedited following the untimely death of Ebrahim Raisi. Both candidates in the run-off, Pezeshkian and Jalili, engaged in debates focusing on economic challenges, international relations, low voter turnout, and internet regulations.

Pezeshkian emphasized public dissatisfaction with the government's management and economic conditions. He advocated for improved relations with the United States and European countries to alleviate Iran's isolation.

Jalili, supported by conservative figures, dismissed the necessity of reviving the nuclear deal with the US, arguing it breached Iran's core policies. He currently serves as one of Ayatollah Khamenei's representatives in Iran's top security body.