The return of absolute control of the Majlis to the conservatives is expected to strengthen the radicalization in Iran in view of the external challenges the country faces, chiefly the “maximum pressure” strategy pursued by President Trump
Iran between Gasoline Protests and Parliamentary Elections
On February 21, 2020, Iran's citizens will go to the polls for parliamentary elections.
The Majlis wields no substantive influence in determining Iranian strategy, especially in foreign affairs. However, the elections are attracting special interest due to the Majlis's influence on internal and economic policies, and because they are a significant test of strength for the two main political camps – the conservatives and the pragmatic reformists, particularly in advance of the Iranian presidential elections that are expected in the summer of 2021.
In addition, voter turnout in the elections may provide a further indication of the Iranian regime's legitimacy following the gasoline protests across Iran in November 2019.