I cannot recommend highly enough listening to the interview Dima conducted with the incredibly well informed cast he assembled for his Dialogue Works YouTube channel with Mohammad Marandi, a Professor of English Literature and Orientalism, University of Tehran, Colonel Larry Wilkinsen (retired) and American Ambassador Chas Freeman.
Professor Marandi is one of my favourite commentators. I find his observations so clarifying. Thanks for bringing attention to him, Azra.
A very enlightening discussion. Thank you for pointing us towards it.