Middle East
Kurdish Politicians Raise Civil War Fears
Political tensions escalate sharply as parliament and police investigate series of attacks on opposition figures.
Drought Blights Syrian Villages
Slow response to crisis prompts many to flee to big cities.
Mud, Sweat and Tears on Iranian Frontier
Border crackdown upsets Kurdish smugglers trafficking oil and alcohol between Iran and Iraq.
Technology Will Not Foster Change
New solutions beyond the regime’s control are needed to allow the truth to reach the masses.
Is Iran Vulnerable to Sanctions?
Targeted sanctions likely to pose serious problems for the Tehran regime, but it remains defiant.
Prosecutors Seek Genocide Verdict for Chemical Ali
Lawyers, victims applaud death sentence but not satisfied with crimes against humanity conviction.
Iran Sceptical About Obama's Afghan Strategy
Elections and nuclear impasse have dulled hopes for an accommodation with the US on Afghanistan.
Iranian Police Meet Stiff Resistance in Ashura Protests
Opposition crowds seem to have shifted from passive protest to robust resistance to security forces.
Dissidents Shift Discussion to Web
Once crushed political forum starts thriving Facebook group.