Nasrallah: Iran's influence crucial for regional stability

Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah urged Iranians on Thursday to elect "the right president," stating that "the future of the region depends" on Iran, in a speech delivered ahead of Friday's Iranian presidential election. 

Nasrallah spoke at a ceremony honoring the late President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash on May 19.

"We ask God to assist the Iranian people, true supporters of all oppressed peoples worldwide, in electing the right president," Nasrallah said. "The destiny of the region's peoples and governments hinges on actions and deeds within the Islamic Republic."

The election, closely monitored in global capitals, occurs amid Iran's pivotal roles in various geopolitical crises — from the war in Gaza to nuclear negotiations in which Iran opposes Western nations. Regardless of the outcome, the elections are expected to have limited repercussions. Moreover, the president's powers remain limited, tasked primarily with implementing major policies set by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Two ultra-conservative candidates withdrew on Thursday, leaving four contenders in an unpredictable race. Leading conservative candidates include ultra-conservative Saeed Jalili and conservative Parliament President Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Also in contention is conservative Mostafa Pourmohammadi. Reformist MP Massoud Pezeshkian, endorsed by key reformist and moderate factions, stands among the favorites.

During his speech, Nasrallah also extended condolences to Raisi's family, praising Iran's response to the accident and internal stability. "The people of Iran, through their management of the accident and the general calm in Iran, have set an example for the world," he said. "The enemies have seen with their own eyes that Iran is stable, calm, and united."

In a previous speech on June 19, Nasrallah escalated tensions, affirming his group's acquisition of new weapons and capacity to inflict direct losses in various regions of Israel. His threats also targeted Cyprus, citing concerns over Israeli military exercises in Cyprus, an EU member state.