Iran's Snap Presidential Election Heads to Runoff

Iran held a snap presidential election following the death of ultraconservative President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash. Reformist candidate Massoud Pezeshkian, a cardiac surgeon and former health minister, narrowly led the first round but faces a runoff against the hardline Saeed Jalili on July 5. Pezeshkian, endorsed by reformists and advocating for women's rights and cautious detente with the West, stands in contrast to hardline candidates who reflect the anti-Western stance of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The election, tightly controlled by the Guardian Council, saw low turnout amid widespread public disillusionment and severe economic challenges. The results of this election could significantly impact Iran's approach to international relations and internal reforms, although ultimate power remains with the Supreme Leader.