Iran's Presidential Race: Hardliners and Key Candidates Emerge

Following the sudden death of President Ebrahim Raisi, Iran is set to hold a snap election on June 28 to replace him. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei seeks a fiercely loyal hardliner to ensure stability and manage the succession to his own position. The Guardian Council will vet candidates, likely favoring those with strong ties to Khamenei, which may result in low voter turnout. Reformists face challenges in gaining political space, and the new president is unlikely to alter Iran's nuclear or foreign policy.