Iran's Presidential Election and Candidates Analysis

Iran is gearing up for a special presidential election on June 28 to choose a successor to the late President Ebrahim Raisi, with five conservative and one reformist candidate engaging in fierce campaigns criticizing the government's policies and promising change. The unexpected reformist stance of conservative candidate Mostafa Pourmohammadi, advocating for the end of the morality police, negotiations with the US, and lifting US sanctions, has surprised many. The influential Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Iran, despite officially remaining neutral, maintains strong ties to most presidential candidates, reflecting its significant influence over the political landscape. The sudden death of President Raisi has sparked discussions on potential successors and the future political dynamics in Iran, with Reformists and dissident elements of the IRGC vying for power amidst a complex succession scenario involving Supreme Leader Khamenei's eventual passing.