Even as the United States and European Union begin to lift some sanctions on Iran, U.S. law continues to prohibit some businesses that provide non-controversial services, such as online education, from operating in Iran and other countries.
Aliakbar Mousavi is a former member of the Iranian parliament and an internet freedom and human rights advocate now living in Washington, DC. In 2006, he was arrested and jailed by the Iranian government for urging human rights reforms.
While the U.S. and Iranian heads of state have yet to meet, the 68
th session of the United Nations General Assembly may mark a new era between the two countries.
For the first time in many months, supporters of intensified diplomatic engagement with Iran appear to be gaining strength here.