So this turns into an important story, not yet spotlighted by the media or governments.  I wrote a couple of days ago on this blog that Iran would probably execute the Swedish scientist in retaliation for the killing of the nuclear scientist.  But here the Leader has made an exception, perhaps an opening.  Iran is under much pressure because it can’t explain the infiltration and escape of the Absard killers, nor protect its nuclear scientists or its IRGC kingpins.  The Leader may be looking to see now if the West will give something in exchange.  See “Iran reprieves scientist facing execution for espionage,” Patrick Wintour, Guardian, December 2, 2020.

“Iranian Arms, Fighters Bolster Maduro Government in Venezuela, U.S. Says,” Michael Gordon and Ian Talley, Wall Street Journal, December 2, 2020.

A very long but informative article about the reach of the Quds Force and IRGC into Iraq.  See “Special Report: Iran expands shrines and influence in Iraq,” WHBL, December 2, 2020.

“Iranian Arms, Fighters Bolster Maduro Government in Venezuela, U.S. Says,” Michael Gordon and Ian Talley, Wall Street Journal, December 2, 2020.