Middle East

Iranian Oilmen Reflect on Mexico Gulf Spill

As Tehran officials offer to help clear spill, oil industry officials are worried about Iran’s ability to deal with similar offshore accidents closer to home.

Syndication Deal Boosts Iraq Reports

Clouds on Iran's Caspian Horizon

Tehran felt obliged to end loss-making oil swaps, but decision could further reduce its influence as a Caspian regional player.

No Future for Iranian Web Restrictions

Despite regime’s sporadic attempts to block internet access, pragmatic commercial interests dictate trend towards greater openness.

Iraq Event Charts Course for Information Age

IWPR and IREX join forces to stage event aimed at helping Iraqis exploit the potential of new technology.

Activists Seek to Break Political Deadlock

NGOs file court complaint in attempt to speed up efforts to form a government.

Polygamy Promoted to Tackle Plight of Anbar's Women

Campaign encouraging men to take more than one wife draws controversy in province awash with war widows.

Iranian President Gunning for Foreign Minister

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad always wanted to run foreign policy. Now he has the minister in his sights.

Legal Curbs Fail to Halt Stonings in Iran

Fundamentalist judges still feel empowered to order barbaric punishment despite attempts to ban it.

Iranian Regime Promotes Mass Marriage

Tens of thousands of young couples start their married lives by taking part in group weddings in cities across Iran every year.