Iranian students, doctors, lawyers, athletes and more have been caught up in a dragnet arresting people believed to be involved in anti-government protests.

"Iran is weakened in the region ... but that is not complete without Iraq," presidential candidate Sardar Abdulla told Newsweek.

Iran's appointment as vice-chair of UN Commission for Social Development faces sharp criticism from human rights advocates and Iranian activists calling it a 'mockery'.

Iranian authorities have presented the families of jailed protesters "an inhumane dilemma," offering reprieve in exchange for public acquiescence.

Feb 15 (Reuters) - Iran is pursuing a nuclear agreement with the U.S. that delivers economic benefits for both sides, an Iranian diplomat was reported as saying on Sunday, days before a second round of talks between Tehran and Washington.

At least 19 Iranian Christians reportedly killed during protests against Iran's regime, including victims Nader Mohammadi and Zahra Arjomandi according to reports.