The results of the first round of early presidential elections in Iran have been announced, following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a plane crash on May 19. Former Minister of Health Masoud Pezeshkian emerged as the frontrunner, receiving approximately 42% of the votes. Pezeshkian, known as a reformer, was followed closely by conservative Said Jalili, who garnered about 39% of the votes. Since no candidate secured more than 50% of the votes, a second round of elections will be held on July 5.
The voter turnout for the first round was 40%, the lowest in the history of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Despite this, the upcoming second round is anticipated to be crucial in determining the next president. While conservatives may have an advantage due to fewer options for voters who supported other conservative candidates in the first round, much will rely on voter enthusiasm and turnout. Pezeshkian’s strong showing in the initial round could motivate reform-minded voters to rally behind him in the second round.
Although the president of Iran is formally regarded as the country’s head of state, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ali Khamenei, wields significant power and influence. The outcome of the second round of elections will not only shape the country’s leadership but also have broader implications for the political landscape in Iran.