Category: Iran

Overview. This reporting period has seen the Iran-US dispute rise to international prominence with oil tankers attacked, a US unmanned aircraft shot down by Iranian air defences, strong rhetoric on both sides and newly-imposed economic sanctions. Under the strategy of maximum pressure being applied by the US, a cornered Iran is lashing out, using the…

Overview. The month of May has seen a build-up of US military hardware and bellicose rhetoric from both sides. Direct conflict seemed almost inevitable mid-month, until Donald Trump signalled that conflict and regime change were not Administration aims. The economy continues to worsen which, combined with the threat of war, has led to societal debate…

Overview. Further pressure was applied to the economy and regime this month as the US said it would not extend sanctions waivers on Iranian oil exports. With inflation rising sharply, particularly for food, and the rial suffering more losses this month, Iranians’ standard of living is set for greater decline.…… Read the rest

Overview. Iranian and US leaders issued statements and delivered speeches on the eve of the Iranian New Year (Nowrouz), 21st March. Messages had heavily political tones, with leaders blaming one another for increasing the hardship Iranian people face. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei labelled the new year (1398) “The Year of Production Boom”.…… Read the rest

Overview. Economic conditions worsen for ordinary Iranians and the country’s armed forces suffer their worst domestic terrorist incident for years in the restive south east. Limited good news came in the form of an FATF reprieve as counter-measures on the banking sector remain suspended until at least June. In practice, Iran’s banks remain isolated and…

Overview. As Iran marks the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution that toppled the Shah, tension has mounted between it and its adversaries, with each ratcheting up rhetoric and actions.In the face of US hostility Iran should bedoing all it can to keep the EU close, but its ballistic missile tests and further allegations of…