US fails to shield humanitarian trade with Iran as sanctions loom

European governments are urging the Trump administration to identify a legal means for their companies to continue to provide food and medicine to Iranians after the Nov. 5 re-imposition of secondary sanctions begins.

United States

Smuggling surges as US sanctions hit Iranian rial

The Rouhani administration may not be responsible for the US sanctions hitting the Iranian economy, but it is responsible for the damage caused by smuggling and other harmful activities resulting from misguided foreign exchange policies.

Iran

Why this film has Iranian hard-liners breaking out in cold sweat

More than 100 cinema halls across Iran, which belong to hard-line Hozeh Honari, have boycotted "Cold Sweat,” an award-winning film that tells the story of an Iranian futsal player who is banned from taking part in an international competition by her husband.

Iran

Woman's daring face-off with police van reignites Iran hijab debate

Footage of a police van almost running over a woman has gone viral as Iranians speak out in in support of hijab protesters and against the controversial morality police.

Iran

Rouhani finally engages with Reformists, but some see too little, too late

While Rouhani’s long overdue meeting with Reformists is a step toward cooperation, they're right to be wary of his friendly gesture.

Iran

Iranian grand ayatollah faces threats for meeting with Reformists

Iran’s seminary and social media have been stunned by a letter threatening a grand ayatollah over his personal meetings.

Iran

Iran turns to tourism to earn hard currency, create jobs

From developing infrastructure to expanding marine tourism and easing visa issuances, Iran is increasingly focusing on its underdeveloped tourism sector as US sanctions are reimposed.

Iran

Will US sanctions sway Iran to enter oil deal with Russia?

Iranians in general do not trust Russia, but their government may be looking into various oil deals with Moscow to work around US sanctions.

Russia

Reformists begin signaling support for Larijani as president

Iran’s parliament speaker, while long a figure in the conservative camp, appears to be gaining Reformist backing for a potential presidential bid in 2021.

Iran

Intel: How allowing Iran to stay in SWIFT financial network would impact US oil sanctions

Iran

Why Chinese public diplomacy is failing in Iran

While political and economic engagement between Iran and China continues to increase, China’s image remains poor as it is hostage to factional disputes within Iran.

Iran

Khamenei says Iran did not encourage fighters to go to Syria, Iraq

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stressed the importance of Iranian fighters in Iraq and Syria in continuing Shiite commemorations.

Iran