Iran Mobilizes to Stifle Opposition Protests - WSJ.com: Via Wall Street Journal / WSJ.com .

BEIRUT—Iranian authorities deployed in force across Tehran Wednesday to conduct last-minute security sweeps and warn residents to refrain from joining antigovernment protests planned for Thursday.

The government typically orchestrates large, carnival-like rallies and demonstrations to mark the anniversary of the Islamic Republic. For this year's events on Feb. 11, the day marking the culmination of the annual celebrations, opposition leaders have called for protesters to demonstrate against the regime. That has set the stage for clashes between authorities and demonstrators, who have taken to the streets repeatedly to protest the outcome of presidential elections in June.

Government officials, meanwhile, ratcheted up threats against any protests Thursday, vowing to confront demonstrators on the streets and calling for government supporters to turn out in large numbers. Iranian officials have branded protesters as agents of foreign powers.

The Iranian judiciary has handed down a number of harsh sentences against protesters arrested in previous demonstrations, including at least 10 pending death sentences.
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Ahmadinejad Warns Against Anti-Iran Aggression: Via Voice of America.

Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is headed to New York for an appearance before the U.N. General Assembly. Before leaving Tehran, Mr. Ahmadinejad said no country is brave enough to attack his nation.

The Iranian president promised his armed forces would resist all invaders, and cut off the hands of anyone who tried to shoot at Iran.

Mr. Ahmadinejad spoke before a military parade that showcased the latest generation of Iranian-made rockets and aircraft. State media reported one plane crashed during the ceremonies.
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Iran's Supreme Leader says Western News Media Attempting to "Poison" Iran: Via Voice of America.

Iran's supreme leader says Western media are to blame for his country's recent political unrest.  

Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is pointing his finger at Western news media for inciting political friction in Iran.

His statement follows protests against the re-election of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at Friday's al-Quds day or Jerusalem day, an annual event to sympathize with Palestinians and condemn Israel.
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The recent election in Iran and its aftermath will be discussed during a historical conference being held at Emory University next week on Saturday August29th. The seminar is being attended by Shirni Ebadi Nobel Peace Laureate and a number of experts both from Iran and the United states.

The impact of Iranian election and its consequences is undoubtedly of great importance to the United States and the Middle East. This seminar will provide a broad and unique in-depth analysis of the events and a rare opportunity to interact with the experts who have intimate knowledge of the country.
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Iran: U.S. Concerns and Policy Responses: Via Congressional Research Reports.

The Bush Administration has pursued several avenues to attempt to contain or end the potential threat posed by Iran, at times pursuing limited engagement, and at other times leaning toward pursuing efforts to change Iran's regime. Some experts believe a potential crisis is looming over Iran's nuclear program because the Bush Administration is skeptical that efforts by several European allies to prevent a nuclear breakout by Iran will succeed, although the Administration announced steps in March 2005 to support those talks. Some advocate military action against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, but others believe that a combination of diplomatic and economic rewards and punishment are the only viable options on the nuclear issue.
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