Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Iran

Iran Tensions Send Oil Prices To Three-Month High

(RFE/RL)

March 26, 2007 -- World oil prices have risen to their highest level this year, hitting $63.93 a barrel in London today.

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March 26, 2007

Analysts point to rising diplomatic tensions over Iran as the main reason for the rise.

The oil market has been unnerved by Iran's capture last week of 15 British navy personnel, as well as the United Nations decision on March 24 to impose new sanctions against Tehran over its nuclear program.

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian military official has warned the United States against launching any attack.

The ISNA news agency quotes the naval forces commander of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guard Corps, Morteza Saffari, as saying Iranians would not allow "one American soldier" to enter their country.

(AFP, AP, Reuters)

The Iranian Economy

Buses being produced at a factory in Tehran (Fars)

IN NEED OF DIVERSIFICATION. Populist Iranian President Mahmud Ahmadinejad is having trouble fulfilling his promises to put the country's petrodollars on the plates of average citizens. Inflation and unemployment remain high and the economy is dominated by the energy sector.

Foes Challenge President's Economic Rhetoric

Power Cuts In An Energy-Rich Land Spark Protests

Government Balks At Gasoline Rationing

Weak Economy Challenges Populist President

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