Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a veiled warning to reformist presidential candidate Masoud Pezeshkian, criticising those who believe progress depends on the USA. Pezeshkian supports restoring the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, unlike his hard-line opponents who demand terms favouring Iran. Khamenei has also urged high voter turnout for the election on 28 June, which analysts say could benefit Pezeshkian. There was a record low turnout in the parliamentary elections in March, and voters have expressed widespread apathy as Iran faces an economy crushed by Western sanctions and after widespread anti-government protests in recent years. Pezeshkian, previously unknown to the public, has garnered significant support. However, hard-liners remain critical, especially after the collapse of the nuclear deal in 2018. If no candidate wins over 50% of the vote, a runoff may be required.