United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Iran (2004)
“ During 1980-88, Iran fought a bloody, indecisive war with Iraq that eventually expanded into the Persian Gulf and led to clashes between US Navy and Iranian military forces between 1987-1988. Iran has been designated a state sponsor of terrorism for its activities in Lebanon and elsewhere in the world and remains subject to US economic sanctions and export controls because of its continued involvement. ”
United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Iran (2004)
“ Following the elections of a reformist President and Majlis in the late 1990s, attempts to foster political reform in response to popular dissatisfaction have floundered as conservative politicians have prevented reform measures from being enacted, increased repressive measures, and consolidated their control over the government. ”
United States. Central Intelligence Agency, CIA World Fact Book, 2004 — Iran (2004)
“ Supreme Court - above a special clerical court, a revolutionary court, and a special administrative court Political parties and leaders: formal political parties are a relatively new phenomenon in the Islamic Republic and most conservatives still prefer to work through political pressure groups rather than parties; a loose pro-reform coalition called the 2nd Khordad front, which includes political parties as well as less formal pressure groups and organizations, achieved considerable success at elections to the sixth Majles in early 2000 ”
