The Carpet Weaver Of Shiraz
A carpet weaver in the ancient city of Shiraz continues her family tradition, but doesn't earn enough to support her large family. Will the easing of economic sanctions on Iran make a difference?
Middle East
NATO, Russia Aiming For Syria Cease-Fire
Last year's war in Ukraine dominated the Munich Security Conference. This year, Russia's intervention in the Middle East has put the focus on Syria. Michele Kelemen speaks to NPR's Linda Wertheimer.
Russian Escalation In Syria Narrows Options To Help Civilians
NPR's Kelly McEvers talks with Brian Katulis, a senior fellow for Middle East policy at the Center for American Progress, about negotiations for helping civilians caught up in the violence in Syria. He says Russia has in effect created a no-fly zone for themselves there, which has made it almost impossible to do anything without Russia's cooperation.
Syrian 'Cessation Of Hostilities' Agreement Met With Skepticism
The day after, weaknesses became clear in a deal billed as trying to get a pause in the fighting in Syria. It's unclear if it will stop Russian bombing or allow in needed aid.
Syrian Doctor Casts Doubt On Proposed Pause In Fighting
Dr. Osama Abo El Ezz is a general surgeon at a hospital in Aleppo, Syria. He says the humanitarian situation is grim and doesn't believe the cease fire will change anything. Nevertheless, he says he will keep working in Aleppo.
As Questions Swirl, Italy Mourns Death Of Italian Student In Cairo
A funeral is being held Friday in Italy for Giulio Regeni, a doctoral student allegedly tortured and killed in Egypt. Thousands have demanded an independent probe into Regeni's death.
The World Has Become A Bit Dull To News From Syria, Miliband Says
A preliminary deal is reached for a cease-fire in Syria that's cost thousands of lives and sparked a refugee crisis. David Greene talks to David Miliband, head of the International Rescue Committee.
What Would A Cease-Fire In Syria Mean For Russian Airstrikes?
A plan has been announced for a cessation of fighting in Syria in one week's time. Mary Louise Kelly talks to Staffan de Mistura, the U.N. special envoy for Syria, about what the pause would mean.
Major Powers Agree To Implement A Cease-Fire In Syria
Foreign ministers — including the U.S. and Russia — meeting in Munich agreed to "accelerate" the delivery of humanitarian aid this week to Syria. They also agreed a cease-fire would begin in one week.
Major Powers Call For 'Cessation Of Hostilities' In Syria — But It's Complicated
Big questions remain about what this will actually mean on the ground in a country torn apart by five years of war.