Great news for peace in the Middle East. The Cooperation Council has been divided over Qatar and Iran’s relationship for three years, and this decision today is a step forward. “GCC unites to seek U.N. extension of Iran arms embargo,” Reuters, August 9, 2020.
Somewhat difficult to confirm, would take brave researchers in selected provinces. Iran is claiming “The literacy rate difference between men and women has declined from 26 percent before the 1979 Islamic Revolution to 2.8 percent,” according to the head of the Literacy Movement Organization. See “Gender gap in literacy rate declines significantly in Iran,” Tehran Times, August 9, 2020.
Iran has over 125 military outposts and bases across Syria, including dozens in governorates closer to Israel, such as Deraa (37, just N of Jordan) and Quneitra (5, just E of Golan). “Turkish study maps out Iran’s entrenchment in Syria,” Dean Shmuel Elmas, Israel Hayom, August 9, 2020.
“Iran’s president has said that the application of tough measures in the country to stem the spread of the virus was “not possible.” Speaking during a meeting of Iran’s anti-coronavirus task force in Tehran, Hassan Rouhani opted for a “moderate path” between a total lockdown and ending restrictions fully. He said the application of tough measures against the pandemic in Iran “leads to depression and anxiety in the society.”” And possible civil rebellion. See “Iran’s Rouhani says tough virus measures ‘not possible’– latest updates,” TRTWorld, August 9, 2020.
“Russia to Build $1.6b Port to Boost Trade With Iran, India, China,” Financial Tribune, August 9, 2020. This is an effort to boost trade with China and India across Iran.
Irony? Quote of the Day candidate? “’Although Saudi Arabia is a member of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and signed a comprehensive bilateral safeguard agreement with the IAEA, it refuses to allow inspections by the agency,’ he said.” See “Iran calls for transparency in Saudi Arabia’s nuclear program,” Prensa Latina, August 9, 2020.
“Iran-linked drug trafficking on rise amid financial crisis,” Majid Rafizadeh, Arab News, August 9, 2020.