Former Iranian Parliament speaker runs for President

Ali Larijani, the former Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and known as a ‘moderate’, has announced his candidacy for the upcoming presidential election on June 28. 

This election was initially scheduled for 2025 but has been brought forward following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash.

The registration process for presidential candidates began on Thursday at the Ministry of the Interior and will conclude on Monday. State media reported that Larijani, 66, officially submitted his candidacy on Friday morning, with footage of his registration being broadcast on state television.

Larijani is recognized for his relatively moderate views, particularly in foreign policy. However, he has a long history within Iran’s political and military establishment. A former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), the ideological army of the Islamic Republic, Larijani has held numerous key positions over the past three decades.

His entry into the presidential race marks a significant development in Iranian politics. Known for his pragmatic approach, Larijani's candidacy might appeal to voters looking for a moderate alternative in the upcoming election.

The sudden rescheduling of the presidential election follows the tragic death of President Raisi, who was a significant figure in Iranian politics. The expedited election process aims to ensure stability and continuity in the country's leadership.

As the registration period continues, other candidates are expected to declare their intention to run, potentially setting the stage for a dynamic and closely watched election. The Iranian public and international observers will be keenly observing the developments leading up to the June 28 vote.

Larijani’s long career includes serving as the head of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, and Speaker of the Parliament from 2008 to 2020.