Tehran, July 4, 2024 – The second round of Iran's presidential election is set to take place on Friday, following a week of intensive campaigning by the candidates. The initial phase of the election, held on June 28, did not yield a clear winner, necessitating a runoff between the top two contenders.

In the first round, none of the four candidates managed to secure the required 50 percent of the votes. The runoff will now be a contest between Saeed Jalili, a former chief nuclear negotiator, and Masoud Pezeshkian, a reformist candidate.

Saeed Jalili, who garnered 9.4 million votes, is known for his adherence to the principles of the revolution. Masoud Pezeshkian, on the other hand, received 1.4 million votes.

Both candidates have ramped up their campaigns since Sunday, participating in numerous meetings and two televised debates to appeal to voters. The campaign period officially ended ahead of the upcoming vote.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has urged the populace to turn out in large numbers for the runoff elections, emphasizing the importance of participation in the democratic process.

The election comes in the wake of a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and several high-ranking officials. The accident occurred last May while President Raisi was en route to Tabriz. The loss has cast a shadow over the political landscape, adding a layer of poignancy to the current electoral process.

Tehran has confirmed that all necessary arrangements for the second round of voting have been completed. As Iranians prepare to head to the polls once more, the nation anticipates a significant turnout to decide its next president.