For a presidential run-off election in Iran, the polls were opened on Friday, testing the popularity of the country's clerical rulers amid voter apathy, regional tensions, and a standoff with the West over Tehran's nuclear program. According to news agency Reuters, state TV informed that polling stations began operations at 8 a.m. local time, with voting set to end at 6 p.m, though extensions until midnight are common. Final results are expected on Saturday, with preliminary figures possibly released earlier.
Iran Presidential Election: Reduction In Voter Participation
The election occurred amidst escalating regional tensions due to the conflict between Israel and Iranian allies Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, along with increased Western pressure on Iran over its advancing nuclear program. Amirali Hajizadeh, Iran's Revolutionary Guards Aerospace Commander, urged people to vote, likening each vote to a "missile launch against enemies."
The new Iranian president is unlikely to bring significant changes to the country's nuclear policy or its support for Middle Eastern militia groups but will influence the day-to-day operations of the government and the tone of both foreign and domestic policies.