U.S. monitors Iran election fallout

WASHINGTON, June 13 (UPI) -- The White House said Saturday it was monitoring the aftermath of presidential election in Iran, including allegations of irregularities in the voting.

Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said in a written statement: "Like the rest of the world, we were impressed by the vigorous debate and enthusiasm that this election generated, particularly among young Iranians. We continue to monitor the entire situation closely, including reports of irregularities."

Incumbent Mahmoud Ahmadinejad breezed to victory in a closely watched vote that many observers had predicted would be much closer.

The results triggered weekend protests by supporters of the main challenger, former Prime Minister Hossein Moussavi. Moussavi Saturday said the results indicated an erosion of Iranian democracy and a rise of authoritarian rule.

CNN said the Obama administration has been keeping a discreet distance from the election.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said in a written statement that the United States "obviously hopes that the outcome reflects the genuine will and desire of the Iranian people."