Putin not waiting for Trump to press advantage in Syria

Russian president seeks gains in Syria in the final weeks of the Obama administration; Saudi Arabia encouraged by Trump’s take on Iran; Liberman as gatekeeper between Trump and Netanyahu.

Saudi Arabia

Canceled speech causes political turmoil in Iran

Confusion over who was behind the controversial decision to bar an outspoken Iranian parliamentarian from speaking in the city of Mashhad is raising heated debate between moderates and conservatives.

Iran

Iran’s mega deal with Airbus inches closer to finalization

Only days after the US House voted against the Boeing and Airbus deals with Iran, the US Treasury issued a second license for Airbus to sell 106 aircraft to Tehran.

United States

Why Iran’s private sector hasn't benefited from privatization

Despite ambitious plans to downsize government and help expand the private sector, Iran’s efforts to privatize state-owned enterprises continue to face serious challenges.

Iran

Why Obama should move to shore up Iran nuclear deal

While efforts have been made to facilitate Iran’s reconnection with the international banking system, much remains to be done.

Iran

Iranian navy 'enters Atlantic for first time' — or did it?

Iranian officials say the country's navy has entered the Atlantic Ocean for the first time.

Iran

Is Iran’s Guardian Council trying to tame lawmakers?

The Guardian Council’s apparent attempt to extend its powers to include supervision of members of parliament faces pushback from the government and lawmakers.

Iran

Millions of Iranians enter Iraq for Shiite ritual

Millions of Iranian pilgrims flock to Iraq to join the marking of Arbaeen, the anniversary of the 40th day of mourning after the killing of the third Shiite Imam, Hussein bin Ali.

Iraq

How Iran's religious singers help frame the war in Syria

In addition to assuming more clout in Iranian politics, religious singers are expanding their presence on the battlefield in Syria.

Syria

Are Shiites substituting Arbaeen for hajj?

Even though Arbaeen is attracting an increasing number of Shiite pilgrims, the annual pilgrimage is still overshadowed by the hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia

Iran, Turkey fight over Tal Afar

As the predominantly Shiite Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), with the support of Iran, expand their control over the recently liberated area of Tal Afar, which has a Turkmen majority, the tension between the PMU and Turkey has increased.

Iraq

US firms join international air show in Iran

While the US House is attempting to halt Western aircraft manufacturers’ recent deals with Iran, American companies are participating in Iran’s International Air Show.

Iran