Christmas brings hope for peace for Aleppo’s Christians

Christians part of region’s DNA, said incoming UN secretary-general; Turkey’s “impossible war”; Erdogan backers blame Iran for Aleppo.

Egypt

Obama administration allows Americans to train Iranians

New regulations unveiled Dec. 22 allow drug, medical device and agricultural experts to travel to Iran.

United States

Did Zarif really say it was a 'mistake' to trust Kerry?

Once again, Iranian hard-liners move to tarnish the reputation of Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif — this time by attributing to him false remarks about the “mistake” of trusting the United States.

United States

Why Ankara now feels vulnerable to Russia

The assassination of the Russian ambassador in Ankara has engaged Turkey to the Russian option in Syria, while Russia sees it as an opportunity to create an alternative axis in the Middle East

Syria

Turkish Islamists’ trial with sectarianism

Turkish Islamists’ Middle Eastern vision did not begin with a sectarian outlook, but the existing sectarian tension may change this.

Turkey

Iranian youth join wave of ecotourism

Iranian youths, particularly those from affluent backgrounds, join the growing trend of ecotourism, roaming the country’s vast desert, mountains and forests.

Iran

Will Iran’s next Oscar-winning film be in Spanish?

Oscar-winning Iranian director Asghar Farhadi’s latest project will be a Spanish-language film featuring power couple Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem.

Iran

Why does Rouhani suddenly want to 'rename' Iran’s currency?

The Hassan Rouhani administration’s push for currency reform is being met with criticism as economists say the Iranian economy is not yet ready to handle the potential dangers of a redenomination.

Iran

Obama administration, allies try to buy time for Iran nuclear deal

In its final weeks, the Obama administration and its European allies are trying to convince the emerging Trump team that the deal is working.

United States

Iranian media lauds Putin's restraint after assassination

Following the assassination of Russia’s ambassador to Turkey, Iranian newspapers praised President Vladimir Putin for his “wise” decisions after the killing.

Syria

Why Aleppo will serve to embolden Iran

While having paid a steep price for standing by its regional allies, Iran increasingly appears to be achieving its objectives in Syria.

Syria

Can Rouhani’s Citizens’ Rights Charter be enforced?

After three years, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has unveiled one of his most important campaign promises — but his Citizens' Rights Charter has not escaped criticism.

Iran