Middle East

Fuel Troubles in Iran

Ambitious plan to flood market with synthetic petrol marred by ecological concerns.

Iraqis Enthused by Egypt Protests

But despite anger over ineffective government, there’s little sign of them emulating the North African revolts.

City of Contrasts

Some are less obvious than others as Sadr City undergoes cultural and economic change.

Virginity Still a Commodity in Iran

Increasing numbers of women have premarital sex and then undergo surgery to conceal the fact from their husbands.

Iranians and the Cult of Death

Mundane spectacle of executions coupled with morbid fascination with sacrifice and retribution.

TV Output Boosts Rights Awareness

New Media Conference Highlights IT Role

Disabled Overlooked

Municipalities do not appear to provide enough support to help those with physical handicaps.

Growing Up in a Graveyard

Several generations of families now live in the Al-Ghuraba due to a lack of affordable housing in Tripoli, with no solution in sight.

Cinemas in Tripoli: Decline of a Golden Age

Bustling cinemas were once a central part of Tripoli’s cultural life, but the current sorry state of the cinema scene reflects how much the city has lost its lustre.