Iranian reform candidate Mohammed Khatami slammed President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Thursday over the international sanctions on Iran. Iran's current isolation hurts the country, he said.
Analysts say Khatami may focus his campaign on the issue of Iran's international status, which has dropped sharply due to Ahmadinejad's calls to destroy Israel.
Ahmadinejad's threats have also led to increased concern over Iran's nuclear program. Concern over the program has resulted in international sanctions on Iran, which is experiencing poverty and rapid inflation.
Despite his criticism of Ahmadinejad, Khatami has assured Iran's mullahs that he does not plan any radical changes, and will respect their leadership.
Khatami entered Iran's presidential race last weekend. He previously served as president for eight years, beginning in 1997.
Iran's most powerful leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, supports Ahmadinejad in the election.