AP: An Iranian diplomat in Nigeria says President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will visit this weekend as the West African nation assumes the rotating presidency of the United Nations’ security council.
Iran leader to visit Nigeria as it takes UN post
FACTBOX-Key political risks to watch in Iran
Reuters: Iran’s escalating nuclear dispute with the West and a plan to slash food and fuel subsidies will further test the nerve and authority of hardline leaders who dealt sternly with unrest after last year’s disputed election.
Top UN nuclear inspector Olli Heinonen resigns
AP: The International Atomic Energy Agency said Thursday that its senior and key nuclear inspector, Olli Heinonen, will be leaving his post at the end of August.
Nuclear show goes on, Iran tells Security Council members
AFP: Iran has written to the 15 members of the UN Security Council insisting that new sanctions slapped on the Islamic republic will not affect its nuclear programme, the state news agency said on Thursday.
Iran arms Syria with radar
Wall Street Journal: Iran has sent Syria a sophisticated radar system that could threaten Israel’s ability to launch a surprise attack against Iran’s nuclear facilities, say Israeli and U.S. officials, extending an alliance aimed at undermining Israel’s military dominance in the region.
Obama set to sign Iran sanctions bill: W.House
AFP: US President Barack Obama is set to sign a sweeping package of tough new energy and financial sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, the White House has said.
Iran warns EU of “dire consequences” over sanctions
Reuters: Iran has warned European Union states of “dire consequences” because of their decision to impose tighter sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program.
Mothers of jailed Americans appeal to Iran leader
AP: The mothers of three Americans held in Iran marked 11 months of their captivity Wednesday with a letter to the country’s supreme leader pleading for their release.
Graffiti in Tehran urges turnout to protest
Iran Focus: Tehran, Jul. 01 – From the Grapevine… Pro-democracy activists are continuing a political graffiti campaign in Tehran ahead of the 9 July student-led uprising anniversary.
Iran officials alarmed at opposition campaign
Iran Focus: Tehran, Jun. 30 – In the days leading to the 11th anniversary of a major student-led uprising, authorities in Iran have grown increasingly alarmed at the activities of the main opposition group.
