Iran 's Guardian Council has approved just 8 of more than 680 presidential hopefuls . The council is the highest body in Iran's Islamic system and its members are chosen by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who wields ultimate power over all state institutions. He says he was warned his campaign could lead to disorder and his safety was a concern . Amirahmadi waited until the last day of registration and then withdrew from the race .
Iran 's Guardian Council has approved just 8 of more than 680 presidential hopefuls . Hooshang Amirahmadi is a U.S.-based academic who campaigned as a candidate . He says he was warned his campaign could lead to disorder and his safety was a concern . Amirahmadi waited until the last day of registration and then withdrew from the race .