they saw as a threat to their power, political analysts said. This will change the face of the Islamic Republic forever, said one well-connected Iranian, who like most of those interviewed declined to be named in the current tense climate. Ahmadinejad will claim an absolute mandate, meaning he has no need to compromise. When he was first elected president in 2005, Mr. Ahmadinejad showed his fealty to the leader, gently bending over and kissing his hand. On Saturday, the leader demonstrated ...