A country in Western Asia, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Iran. Historically referred to as "Persia", the country is a regional military and cultural center, as well as a hub for Shia Islam. Their language is Farsi. The country was ruled by monarchy (or "shah") for over 2,500 years until it became a pseudo-theocratic republic in 1979 after the Islamic revolution.
Internationally the Iranian leadership and policy are well-known for staunch anti-Western (anti-American and anti-Zionist) stance, as well as its support of armed insurgent groups around the Middle East such as Hezbollah, Hamas and various Shia paramilitaries.
