kev- not quite.You have to realise that Iran has a unique system of split government.An Islamic Republic.
Day-to-day running of the nation is in the hands of the elected government & president.Ultimate authority is with the Supreme Leader.
It’s not the Supreme leader’s approval that counts in elections.Candidates have to meet Islamic standards to stand for election.Otherwise the Guardian Council can dismiss them.
It’s a shame there is even a question of mistrust about the middle east & Iran.Given the nature of recent history with the west (war & hostility), it’s not surprising.What really gets under Arab & Iranian skin is the blatant double standards in western attitudes to Israel & hostility to other countries.Not to mention the perceived war on Muslims & the occupation of Iraq.
So, mistrust is hardly surprising.On both sides.