“Iran Tried to Persuade Sudan to Allow Naval Base on Its Red Sea Coast,” WSJ, 3-3-24.  “Tehran, which has supplied drones for Khartoum’s war with a rebel warlord, pledged a warship in exchange for access but was turned down. … A naval base on the Red Sea would allow Tehran to tighten its grip on one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, where it is helping Yemen-based Houthi rebels launch attacks on commercial vessels. Iran and the Houthis say the attacks are aimed at punishing Israel and its allies for the fighting in Gaza. Iran’s regional rivals, Israel, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, all have direct access to the waterway.”

“Chinese Influencers’ Upcoming Visit To Iran Sparks Criticism,” Iran International, 3-3-24.  “Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Iran continues to grapple with challenges in attracting foreign tourists, exacerbated by its history of detaining foreigners and dual nationals, along with societal constraints imposed after the Islamic Revolution of 1979.”

“Economic Turmoil Worsens In Iran As Hardliners Win Election,” Iran International, 3-3-24.

Iran is encouraging Hamas to hold firm, and hand on to the pawns/hostages.  “Israel won’t send team to Cairo, said to believe Sinwar seeks escalation on Ramadan,” Times of Israel, 3-3-24.