Syria to receive new S-300 air defense system from Russia

Russia will soon supply the Syrian government with an upgraded air defense system, the S-300. The two-week transfer timeline for the S-300 to Syria is making many nervous, as it would significantly degrade Israel’s ability to conduct airstrikes in the same way it has for years. This could lead to drastic changes in the way […]

In spite of sanctions, India to continue buying crude from Iran

India will continue to purchase Iranian crude oil, despite the sanctions from the United States. According to a report from Reuters, the announcement was made by Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif shortly after meeting with Indian diplomat Sushma Swaraj. “Our Indian friends have always been categorical in terms of their intention to continue economic […]

The CIA is shifting emphasis away from terrorism and back toward nation-level foes

While a great deal of discussion has been afforded to the U.S. military’s near two-decade long anti-terrorism and counter-insurgency efforts, it wasn’t the only facet of the American national security apparatus that saw a distinct shift in operational strategy following the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. The CIA, America’s covert intelligence gathering service with […]

Why are oil prices up? Several factors

Crude oil prices rose sharply Wednesday, driven up by a decline in the U.S. oil supply, and the expected effects of a new wave of sanctions on Iran. Iran is an influential member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and one of the worlds largest oil producers. Brent crude, a benchmark oil, crossed […]

The Pic of the Day: Leaders from Iran, Russia, and NATO ally Turkey meet

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani, centre, flanked by Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, left, and Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, pose for photographs in Tehran, Iran, ahead of their summit to discuss Syria, Friday, Sept. 7, 2018. The three leaders began a meeting to discuss the war in Syria.   Presidential Press Service via AP, Pool   […]

EU approves economic aid to Iran

Brussels, Belgium—Defying US interests and sanctions, the European Commission has approved close to $21 million in aid to Iran. This will be the first installment of a $58 million package. “This new package will widen economic and sectorial relations in areas that are of direct benefit to our citizens,” said Federica Mogherini, the EU’s High […]

Oil up slightly as Japan agrees to cease importing Iranian crude

On Monday, several crucial Japanese oil wholesalers announced that come October the firms will cease importing Iranian oil. The announcement, which comes after increased U.S. pressure and the threat of sanctions on any country doing business with Iran, has already caused oil prices to rise, according to a report from Reuters. Japan had been in […]

United Nations Special Rapporteur claims that sanctions on Iran are illegitimate

According to United Nations Special Rapporteur Idriss Jazairy, the United States’ sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran are unreasonable, unjustified, and illegitimate and should be lifted immediately. Jazairy was appointed by the Human Rights Council in 2015 and has been a key figure in monitoring world policies. Last week Jazairy expressed the concerns surrounding the sanctions in a […]

Global oil market steady despite uncertainty in Tehran

The global oil market is remaining steady, in part due to the loss of supply from Iran thanks to U.S. sanctions. According to a report from Reuters, energy traders are enthusiastic about the upcoming sanctions, which are set to target the Iranian oil industry in November of this year. Iranian oil production appears to be […]