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.
Iran has become the paper tiger in the room: Even when cornered, it can still lash out - analysis
For over three decades, Iran has carefully cultivated the image of a fierce regional power with unstoppable momentum, but during the 12-Day War, its image took a major blow.
US-backed Yemeni forces intercept weapons shipment from Iran to Houthis, CENTCOM says
Katz flying to DC to meet with Hegseth on Iran, weapons
Iran's Araghchi visits China in effort to win back Beijing's military support
Khamenei warns Iran is ready to respond to any new attack, threatens 'even bigger blow'
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, warned that his country is ready to "respond to any new attack" during comments carried by state TV.
Syria conflict grows as Egypt and Jordan warn of regional instability
As the crisis grows regionally, it is likely that more countries will seek to become involved.
Iran-linked hackers target London journalist claiming he is a Mossad agent - Times
The hackers posted Pourmohsen’s photo and Iranian ID card along with the accusation.
Sirens by Dead Sea after Houthi missile launch, Israel showing flexibility in hostage talks
Shas exits Netanyahu's gov't,• Syrian Druze leaders reach ceasefire in Sweida • Israel's Druze community infiltrates Syria • IDF Kfir Brigade soldier severely wounded in Gaza
Staying alert: A new strategic phase in the Israel-Iran confrontation - opinion
Israel and Iran stand on the threshold of a new phase in their strategic confrontation, and Israel must act with heightened intelligence alertness.
Iran, China, and Russia behind life-threatening operations in UK, British police say
Two senior British police officers warned that Russia, Iran, and China are behind a growing number of life-threatening operations in Britain.
Edelstein to haredim: Now is not time to topple government
Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee chair Yuli Edelstein called on haredi politicians to exhibit “national responsibility.”
Iran to hold talks with Chinese, Russian partners at summit
“We will have bilateral meetings with the Chinese foreign minister, which naturally has its own importance in the current situation, as well as with the Russian foreign minister,” Abbas Araqchi said.
Trump in no rush to talk with Iran, US sets August deadline for Iran nuclear deal
US asks Israel to stop strikes on Syrian military forces in south Syria • Shas could resign from gov't as soon as Thursday following UTJ's exit
Azerbaijan, Russia, and Iran: Redrawing strategic boundaries - opinion
Azerbaijan is helping to rewrite the geopolitical script of the South Caucasus through its evolving foreign policy.
No mercy: Israel’s tactics in confronting terror - opinion
Israel has sent an unequivocal message that its reach will extend to anyone daring to threaten it.
