Iranians go to vote burdened by economic pain and unmoved by promises

Iranians head to the polls amid economic hardship, skepticism towards politicians, and high regional tensions, hoping for meaningful change.

As Iranians head to the polls for legislative and other elections on Friday, candidates have promised them on campaign posters to "fight corruption" and "fix the economy".

In the minds of many voters, economic hardship is indeed the most burning issue as the Islamic republic suffers under punishing international sanctions and rapid inflation.

At Tehran's storied Grand Bazaar, many shoppers are simply wandering the warren of aisles without buying anything, as prices have skyrocketed in recent years.

Many doubt that a quick solution is in sight — among them 62-year-old retiree Aliasghari, who said he wished the politicians would "stop the empty slogans".

"The economic situation is extremely troubling," said the pensioner walking through the labyrinthine market, who asked not to be fully named as he discussed the sensitive issue.

Citizens "are hearing a lot of fabrications and they have lost their trust in voting," he said, adding that "none of my family members are willing to take part in the elections".

Voters are due to pick new members of Iran's 290-seat legislature and the Assembly of Experts, a key body that appoints the supreme leader, a post held by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 84.