Iran's Parliament Speaker Runs for President After Raisi's Death in Helicopter Crash

Following the sudden death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash on May 19, Iran's political situation has been thrust into a state of flux. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the conservative speaker of Iran's parliament, has announced his candidacy for the snap presidential election set for June 28. This election, originally scheduled for 2025, has been expedited in light of the recent tragedy.

Qalibaf, 62, is a seasoned politician with a diverse background, having served as mayor of Tehran from 2005 to 2017, chief of the Iranian police forces, and an Iran-Iraq war veteran. He has also previously run for president in 2005 and 2013. In his current role as parliament speaker, he was re-elected on May 28, just days after Raisi's death.

Qalibaf has pledged to focus on improving Iran's economy, which has been a significant issue for the country. He stated, "If I don't run for election, the work that we have started in the last few years to solve the economic problem of the people... will not be completed." His campaign is expected to focus on economic reforms and stability.

The election will see a total of 80 candidates vying for the presidency, including former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, moderate ex-parliament speaker Ali Larijani, and ultraconservative former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili. All candidates must await approval from the Guardian Council by June 11 to confirm their eligibility.

Why this matters: The election of a new president in Iran has significant implications for the country's domestic and foreign policies, including its nuclear program and relationships with Western nations. The outcome of the election could lead to changes in Iran's economic and political trajectory, affecting not only its citizens but also the global community.

The Guardian Council, a conservative-dominated body, plays a vital role in vetting candidates for the election. Historically, the council has never accepted a woman or anyone calling for radical change to the country's governance. This vetting process is a significant step in determining the final list of candidates who will compete in the election.

Qalibaf's extensive experience in various governmental roles, including his time as a Revolutionary Guard general, positions him as a strong contender in the upcoming election. However, his past actions, such as supporting a violent crackdown on Iranian university students in 1999 and reportedly ordering live gunfire to be used against students in 2003, may influence public perception.

The election comes at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and the West, particularly over Tehran's nuclear program, its support of Russia in the Ukraine war, and its crackdowns on dissent. The new president will face significant challenges in addressing these issues while also managing domestic economic concerns.

With the election date drawing near, the political situation in Iran remains dynamic and uncertain. The outcome of the Guardian Council's vetting process and the subsequent election results will play a critical role in shaping the country's future direction.

Key Takeaways

• Iran's presidential election set for June 28 after President Raisi's sudden death.
• Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, conservative speaker of parliament, announces candidacy.
• 80 candidates, including former President Ahmadinejad, will vie for the presidency.
• Guardian Council to vet candidates by June 11, with a focus on economic reforms.
• Election outcome to impact Iran's domestic and foreign policies, including nuclear program.