People in Iran are voting in a presidential run-off election between a reformist and a conservative hardliner with starkly different views on foreign policy.
Polling began on Friday, one week after the first round of voting ended with no clear winner. The election was called after President Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash in May.
Reformist Masoud Pezeshkian is a former deputy parliamentary speaker and health minister.
Saeed Jalili is a hardliner and a former secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, a body in charge of defense and foreign affairs.
Pezeshkian says he wants to improve relations with the United States and Europe, so that they would lift sanctions on Iran.
Jalili argues that even if Iran remains in conflict with the West, it can overcome sanctions by developing domestic industries and strengthening ties with emerging nations.
Pezeshkian has criticized the crackdown on women over the mandatory wearing of the “hijab” headscarf. He said he will guarantee his government will stand against forced patrols.
Jalili maintains that it is necessary to strictly enforce the rules requiring women to wear the headscarf in public spaces.
While hardline conservatives have a solid support base, the reformist camp is hoping to court the uncommitted electorate. Voter turnout will likely be a key factor.
The result of the election is expected to be known as early as Saturday, Japan time.