Three thoughts.  Look at the poor health/appearance of the professor from Australia, seen in the photo.  Second, multiple countries had to agree to this prisoner swap—Australia, Iran, Thailand, Israel, and the U.S.  Maybe others.  Last, we’re reminded of taking careful aim when throwing grenades—crime doesn’t pay.  See “Thailand approved transfer of 3 Iranians as Australian freed,” Tassanee Vejpongsa and Nick Perry, AP, November 26, 2020.

So the answer—Was this sub made in Iran for the South American drug trade?—is likely known by U.S. and other  intelligence agencies.  But the article mentioned something little known—there are an estimated 1,000 mini-subs used by the drug cartels.  See “Colombian navy captures fully submersible sub for drugs transport; possible origin North Korea or Iran,” Merco Press, November 26, 2020.

“Iran Ready To Increase Percentage Of Uranium Enrichment,” Orkhan Jalilov, Caspian News, November 26, 2020.

Iran has billions within its sovereign wealth fund.  It can buy vaccinations if it wants, unless it has already decided to spend that money on malicious activity.  “No Coronavirus Vaccine Anytime Soon for Iran,” Radio Farda, November 26, 2020.

His “trial and conviction were retribution for his refusal to spy for Iran while he was working in Sweden.”  Now his fellow academics call for “maximum pressure” against Iran, a position which the U.S. has been criticized for (the U.S. policy of “maximum pressure”).  See “Academics demand maximum pressure on Iran over VUB professor death sentence,” The Brussels Times, November 26, 2020.

On a related note, I have found today in the news this story, based on UANI research, of the inconsistent response by European countries to Iran’s hostage-taking.  Rightfully, the article supports the firmer response.  See “European dual-nationals and Iranian hostage diplomacy,” EU Reporter, November 26, 2020.