The 50 shades of gray of the Iranian regime’s hardline faction

After weeks of intense U.S. attacks on Iran, a lull set in following the signing of a framework agreement between the Iranian and U.S. presidents on June 17. But, on July 6, as Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s funeral, killed on the first day of the war, Feb. 28, drew hundreds of thousands of people from Tehran to Qom, Iranian missiles targeted commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Three vessels were hit within a matter of hours. The Islamic Republic had, however, committed to allowing safe and unimpeded passage through this strategic strait until a long-term agreement could be reached. No party claimed responsibility for the attacks. But U.S. retaliation was swift. On July 7, Washington launched a series of strikes against Iran, reigniting the war.A few days later, CBS reported that Iranian officials had attributed these attacks to a… Start your mornings with The Morning Brief, our flagship newsletter that brings you the latest from Lebanon and the region. Enjoy 7 days of free access when you create your account. I would like to receive special offers from L’Orient Today as well as selections of the best articles. Register By creating an account, you agree to the terms and conditions of use and our privacy policy. Register Log in to your account to see the results of the polls

After weeks of intense U.S. attacks on Iran, a lull set in following the signing of a framework agreement between the Iranian and U.S. presidents on June 17. But, on July 6, as Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s funeral, killed on the first day of the war, Feb. 28, drew hundreds of thousands of people from Tehran to Qom, Iranian missiles targeted commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Three vessels were hit within a matter of hours. The Islamic Republic had, however, committed to allowing safe and unimpeded passage through this strategic strait until a long-term agreement could be reached. No party claimed responsibility for the attacks. But U.S. retaliation was swift. On July 7, Washington launched a series of strikes against Iran, reigniting the war.A few days later, CBS reported that Iranian officials had attributed these attacks to……Read more by Laure-Maïssa FARJALLAH