July 18, 2017

Iran's judiciary arrests Rouhani's brother on anniversary of nuclear deal

What is the meaning behind Iran's supreme leader's arrest of newly re-elected President Rouhani's brother?  Let's examine the power struggle.

July 11, 2017

About France's much hyped Total-Iran deal: Buyer beware

The celebrations are popping around Iran's first big foreign investment deal since the Iran deal.  But they shouldn't get too excited.

June 16, 2017

Iranian officials: Western states responsible for terrorist attacks in London

So how do we explain the strange responses from Tehran about the recent terror attacks in London?  Take a look at some old power-playing tactics from the mullahs.

June 1, 2017

The Dispute over Vote-Rigging in Iran's Election

Iran's mullahs have long known how to rig elections, and it's in the specifics of this one that the full spectrum of their dirty tricks was on display.

May 19, 2017

Iran elections: Rouhani declares, 'I will kiss the supreme leader's hand a dozen times'

In the last days before Iran's election, the supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, tilted his hand.  Here are some possibilities as to what he means by it.

May 10, 2017

Iran, fearing uprisings, holds presidential debate

The second televised presidential debate in Iran by the six candidates received a warning before it began.

May 6, 2017

An assassination in Istanbul and an election in Iran

A television director was assassinated in Istanbul last April 29, and all signs point to Iran as culpable.  If so, there's an Iran election connection.

April 30, 2017

Iran’s election, and forbidden enthusiasm toward the West

Iran's got massive economic problems and its presidential candidates are seeking engagement with the West. This doesn't sit well with its top ayatollah.

April 24, 2017

Iran’s presidential election – Ahmadinejad’s disqualification boosts or hurts Rouhani?

The disqualification of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad from Iran's elections isn't surprising. But does it help incumbent President Hassan Rouhani?

April 22, 2017

Ahmadinejad: Iran’s Gorbachev

Comparing Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Iran's former firebrand president, to Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader, may appear strange at first.  It's not.