The Latest from Iran (11 October): Persistence

1900 GMT: Rafsanjani Watch. As news emerges of the Supreme Leader's smack-down of former President Hashemi Rafsanjani over Islamic Azad University, Rafsanjani's brother Mohammed Hashemi has tipped off more worries. He declared that their party Kargozaran had committed no mistakes which would justify shutting it down, but "radical currents" could not bear parties like Kargozaran and want to eliminate them.

1830 GMT: Bazaar Strikes. Tagheer claims that the gold market in Mashhad is still on strike despite threats of prosecution of sellers.

1810 GMT: Today's All-is-Well Moment. First Vice President Mohammad Reza Rahimi, meeting province governors, has said people should believe that the government has more foreign currency and gold reserves than normal.

Rahimi added that subsidy cuts aim at just distribution of wealth, and there will be no inflation, as that is only a rumour spread by enemies.He claimed the challenge of sanctions will be met by activating projects in the South Pars gas and oil field, creating 1.1 million new jobs. 

Indeed, Rahimi is so confident that --- like the President --- he has filed a lawsuit against conservative MP Ali Motahhari and several other legislators.

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Iran Guide: An Introduction to the Issue of Subsidies (Nikou)

The Government's plans to cut subsidies has become one of the most charged issues in Iran, with divisions within the conservative establishment --- and an escalating battle between some key members of Parliament and the President --- over the proposals.

The subsidy cut plan also comes at a time of economic tension, raising concerns that they might contribute to inflation and thus public discontent. The first reductions were supposed to be in place this week, but they have now been delayed to next month.

Writing for Tehran Bureau, Semira Nikou offers a beginner's guide.

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