Iran

The idea that the alleged Iranian plot to assassinate the Saudi ambassador went to the very top is fanciful, says Robert Dreyfuss. Still, it has almost certainly scuppered the prospects for talks.

Claims Iran was plotting to assassinate the Saudi Arabian ambassador on US soil are extraordinary. Would Iran’s leadership really have OK’d such a plot?

The US has accused Iran of planning to detonate an explosive device to kill the Saudi Arabian ambassador. The Diplomat asks Iran analyst Michael Rubin for his take.

There are some encouraging signs Iran may be willing to compromise over its nuclear programme. But is the Obama administration willing to listen?

Civil war in Syria would serve Iran well. Backing the Alawites would allow it to undermine Israel and Saudi Arabia at the same time.

As sanctions bite against Iran, its national shipping line is believed to be putting unsafe ships to sea to try to beat them. Are Asian nations prepared for the costs of a disaster?

The US is making a mistake in demonising Iran, says Patrick Seale. Obama should have seized the chance to engage.

With spiralling inflation, Iran’s economy is in need of rebalancing. Poor implementation of vital reforms is undermining government claims of success.

With pressure growing on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to step aside, will Iran continue to support his crackdown?

Tensions between the president and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have been bubbling to the surface. Ahmadinejad is running out of options.

Ahmadinejad’s offer to return to talks over Iran’s nuclear programme may not be sincere. But accepting it may be the least bad option.

Claims of witchcraft and sorcery, firings and reinstatements – who will win the battle of wills between the Supreme Leader and President Ahmadinejad?