Why Netanyahu wants more money for security

Top defense experts estimate that the new 2030 Security Concept was designed not as a serious tool to protect Israel against its threats, but as a means to preserve Benjamin Netanyahu’s image of "Mr. Security."

Palestine

Caspian Sea convention moves Iran closer to northern neighbors

While the signing of the landmark legal convention on the Caspian Sea has exposed the Rouhani administration to criticism at home, the accord provides Iran with important advantages while leaving the door open for further talks on boundaries.

Iran

Apparent death threat against Rouhani triggers fierce backlash

A placard seen at a recent gathering at a top seminary in Iran draws a fierce backlash, as it is being interpreted as a death threat against President Hassan Rouhani.

Iran

Russia-led regional payment network could blunt US sanctions on Iran

Russia is reportedly expanding on previous talks with Iran to create a regional integrated payment network.

Russia

Iran-Iraq War continues to claim lives 30 years on

The eight-year war between Iraq and Iran ended on Aug. 20, 1988, but its negative impacts linger on both sides.

Iraq

Iranians ask government officials: #Where_is_your_kid?

Public calls for Iranian officials to account for the lifestyles of their children bring focus to the issue of the lack of trust in the political establishment.

Iran

Iran parliament report reveals 17 dual nationals in government

An Iranian parliamentary report revealed that there are 17 dual nationals working in the government.

Iran

Kurdish farmers hit by water crisis

With neighboring Iran diverting rivers and building dams, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is in the midst of an already severe water crisis that threatens to get even worse, thanks to national and regional governments failing to acknowledge the urgency of the problem.

Iraq

Iran-US conflict leaves Abadi in a dilemma

By rectifying his statement on supporting US sanctions against Iran, Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi is balancing between the United States and Iran in Iraq to keep both sides as his supportive allies.

Iraq

Iran prosecutor warns ministers: no one is immune in anti-corruption probe

Iran’s judiciary and the Rouhani administration appear to be heading for a clash over prosecutors' approach to an effort to tackle corruption.

Iran

Sanctions, profiteering put Iranian newspapers in a bind

A paper crisis exacerbated by US sanctions is weighing down Iranian daily newspapers, which are resorting to everything from closures to online paywalls.

Iran

Reformism weakens as factional interests reign supreme in Iran

The lack of broad embrace of former Reformist President Mohammad Khatami’s call for change signifies not just continued conservative refusal to enter "national dialogue," but also the Iranian public’s increasing disregard for the pro-Reform camp.

United States