In Tehran on May 31, the eight men approved to stand in Iran's presidential election on June 14 debated the issues live on Iranian state TV. RFE/RL's Golnaz Esfandiari live-blogged the debate.
Millions of Iranians will head to the polls on June 14 to determine Iran's next president. As the campaign officially kicks off, RFE/RL has compiled this guide to Iran's rival factions, prominent campaign issues, and the intricacies of the Islamic republic's electoral system. [READ IT HERE]
11:0531.5.2013
Iran's state tv showing images of presidential candidates getting ready for their first televised debate.
11:0931.5.2013
The 8 presidential candidates are being briefed ahead of the debate, state TV anchor just announced.
11:1331.5.2013
The first live televised debate between Iran's presidential candidates is due to start at 4:00PM Tehran time, 7:30 EST.
11:1931.5.2013
This is the first of three televised debates.
11:2431.5.2013
The U.S. has lifted sanctions on mobile phone and other communication technologies. Read Golnaz Esfandiari's report here.
11:2631.5.2013
Iran's state tv playing patriotic songs ahead of the debate which is due to start in 5 minutes.
11:2631.5.2013
#iran2013 candidates drawing numbers on where they should be seated for the first presidential debates, to keep things fair & orderly
