TEHRAN— In a recent meeting of Iran's top government officials, Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib reiterated that the behavior of election candidates is being closely monitored, with warnings issued to those exhibiting destructive behavior. 

The meeting, held on Wednesday, was aimed at preparing for the implementation of Article 131 of the Constitution and making crucial decisions to hold presidential elections within 50 days of the late President Ebrahim Raisi's martyrdom.

Interim President Mohammad Mokhber hosted the meeting, which included the participation of Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, IRIB Chief Peyman Jebeli, Intelligence Minister Esmaeil Khatib, and other prominent figures.

The session began with a discussion on the central directives of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Khamenei. The heads of the branches underscored the importance of using these directives as guiding principles for the election.

During the meeting, Khatib presented a report on the current state of the election and instances of unethical behavior. He emphasized that the behavior of candidates and their supporters is being monitored impartially and continuously. Those engaging in destructive behavior will receive necessary warnings, Khatib said. 

He also highlighted the ministry's efforts to counter foreign plots aimed at disrupting societal peace, ensuring that the electorate can make informed decisions in a stable environment, free from external interference.

Additionally, IRIB Chief Peyman Jebeli provided an update on the preparations for candidates' advertising programs, including debates and roundtables. He emphasized that the full capacity of television networks will be utilized to facilitate comprehensive coverage of the election.

This vigilant monitoring and the extensive preparations underscore the government's commitment to conducting a fair and secure election process, ensuring that all candidates adhere to ethical standards while safeguarding the public's right to a transparent and peaceful electoral environment.

With the registration period for candidates having concluded on Monday, Iran is gearing up for the 14th presidential election.
 
As the nation prepares for this critical event, various bodies are now sharing the latest information and updates.

Following the closure of candidacy registration, the Constitutional Council, responsible for vetting candidates, now has to announce vetting results. 

Iran's electoral countdown: registration closes, vetting begins

According to Hadi Tahan Nazif, the Council's spokesperson, the vetting process is thorough and time-consuming. He urged the media and online activists to refrain from speculating about the candidates' qualifications until the process is complete. 

Tahan Nazif emphasized that the Interior Ministry is tasked with executing the election, while the Constitutional Council oversees the process. 

Highlighting the significance of the presidency in Iran’s political system, Tahan Nazif referred to Article 113 of the Constitution. He underscored that the president is the second-highest-ranking official after the Leader of the Islamic Revolution and heads the executive branch, managing the relationship among the country's three branches of government.