The story: Given the mass disqualification of moderate and pro-reform candidates, the elections for a new parliament and Assembly of Experts in Iran were battled out between conservatives and hardliners. In this contest, a younger generation of radicals appears to have gained the upper hand in some constituencies.

Meanwhile, supporters of the political establishment insist that calls for a boycott failed—despite figures suggesting record-low voter turnout. Those critical of official statistics say real turnout was likely below the already low figures put out by the authorities. This comes amid speculations about an unprecedented...