Iran
Iran, the second-largest country in the Middle East, is a multi-ethnic Islamic theocracy with the ultimate decision maker being the country's prime religious authority, its Supreme Leader. It infuses elements of democracy, such as an elected president. With one of the longest and storied histories of civilization, the current Islamic Republic of Iran was established by Ruhollah Khomeini in 1979 following the Islamic Revolution. Kohmeini became Iran's first Supreme Leader.
Iran is considered authoritarian in its suppression of rights for women and children and the violent squandering of opposing political protests.
Strategically located between the water bodies of the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Caspian sea, it is bordered by key middle-eastern players, such as Turkey, Afghanistan and Iraq.
Iran holds the world's second-largest natural gas supply as well as a massive oil reserve, a key element often discussed in its role in international relations and political leverage.
Before 1979, Iran maintained friendly relations with Israel via pro-Western leader Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. However, after the Islamic Revolution, Iran severed all ties with Israel and by the 1990s relations turned hostile.
Iran has escalated its nuclear technology development over the years while also funding and supporting Islamic-extremist proxy groups much closer to Israel, such as Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and Hezbollah.
Khamenei’s personal hatred of Azerbaijan - opinion
The Islamic Republic of Iran's animosity toward Azerbaijan, an independent Shi'ite Muslim country, stems directly from its supreme leader.
Treasury Dept. designates 22 entities linked with selling Iranian oil for IRGC-QF
IDF responses to war crimes charges delayed again for months due to Iran op.
Paris court extends detention of Iranian woman held on terrorism charges
Mideast security lobby calls to 'take advantage of window' for regional security
"Opportunities like this come once in a century in the Middle East, but the window won't always be open," Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa said.
Spanish court says attempt on former politician's life linked to opposition to Iran leadership
Alejo Vidal-Quadras, 80, a founder of Spain's far Right Vox party, and supporter of Iranian dissidents, was shot in the face by a motorbike passenger as he was walking in Madrid in November 2023.
'Iran can't be free unless all women are free': Oppression of women central to Iran - interview
British-Iranian journalist Jonathan Harounoff discusses his new book 'Unveiled: Inside Iran's #WomanLifeFreedom Revolt.'
Saudi crown prince meets Iranian foreign minister in Jeddah
The two discussed relations and the latest regional developments, Saudi state news agency SPA said.
We bombed Iran with precision - why can’t we control Gaza with purpose? - opinion
To achieve victory in Gaza, we must establish absolute control over the land, the people, and every critical resource.
IDF announces soldier killed in Gaza, Netanyahu: Good chance we will reach a ceasefire
'Conditions created' to advance hostage deal, IDF Chief of Staff Zamir says • Netanyahu, Hegseth meet at Pentagon • IDF encircles Beit Hanun, conducts targeted ops in Lebanon
Zionists understand: You can revive reputations, but not dead Israelis - opinion
Israelis welcome the prospect of a future in which they are no longer surrounded by well-armed enemies determined to do them harm, even if it means being viewed negatively by the rest of the world.
Widespread hatred: The cost of Israel's victory over Iran - opinion
Thinking of our accomplishments against Iran and its proxies brings a smile to my lips. At the same time tears wet my eyes when I ponder the more than 430 soldiers who gave their lives.
Iran denies requesting meeting with US, state media reports
US President Donald Trump's Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff said he would meet with Iranian diplomats "next week or so."
Gaza deal can be achieved within days, working to secure it, senior Israeli official tells 'Post'
While Hamas rejected the latest Qatari proposal, the official said the differences were “small” and that negotiations remain on track.
Israeli residents displaced by Iran missile attacks told to leave temporary hotel housing
Residents evacuated from homes damaged by missile strikes during Operation Rising Lion are now being asked to leave the hotels where they have been temporarily housed.
