Rouhani Pushes Back against Security Media

by Saeed Aganji As in other authoritarian states, the Iranian media landscape is greatly shaped by outlets with close links to the security and intelligence establishment. Media outlets with links to security organizations are usually launched with a defined approach… Continue Reading

The Role of Iran’s Military in Syria

by LobeLog’s correspondent in Tehran Even though the number of Iranian casualties in Syria has been increasing lately, the Iranian government insists that the country’s role there is purely advisory and it is not sponsoring any military presence. Hossein Amir-Abdolahian,… Continue Reading

How the Tragedy in Mecca Influences Iran-Saudi ties

by LobeLog’s Tehran Correspondent Since September 24, 2015 when hundreds of Iranian pilgrims were killed in the stampede in the holy city of Mecca during the annual hajj, the public rage against the Saudi regime has reached a peak in… Continue Reading

The Nuclear Deal and Iran’s Missile Program

by LobeLog’s Tehran correspondent On July 20, 2015, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2231, endorsing the Iran nuclear agreement and overturning previous resolutions that imposed restrictions on Iran over its nuclear program. However, not all of the restrictions levied… Continue Reading

Iranian Hardliners Silent on Rouhani’s US Diplomacy

by Ali Reza Eshraghi Following the phone conversation between Presidents Barack Obama and Hassan Rouhani, the atmosphere in Iran has taken a happier turn while remaining surprisingly calm. Contrary to predictions made over the past week and during Rouhani’s trip… Continue Reading