
Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, called for 'maximum' voter turnout in the upcoming presidential election, emphasizing the need to 'overcome the enemy.' Without naming specific candidates, Khamenei criticized politicians who he believes rely too heavily on the United States for progress.
The comments by Khamenei are seen as a direct challenge to reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian, who has advocated for a return to the 2015 nuclear deal and closer ties with the West. Khamenei warned against supporting individuals who oppose the Islamic system or show allegiance to the U.S., stating that they would not be beneficial for the country.